West Ham United are believed to be moving away from their initial transfer target Gedson Fernandes and eyeing up a move for Genk midfielder Sander Berge, according to The Daily Mail.
The Hammers originally held talks with Benfica over a move for the Portuguese youngster, but with other clubs in the conversation for his services, the London club feared they would miss out on his signature.
That is likely to ring true, with reports linking the West Ham target with a switch to Chelsea this month, forcing boss David Moyes to look elsewhere in a bid to strengthen in a key area of his squad.
The Hammers have also been linked with the likes of Joe Allen, as they attempt to bring in a central midfielder, who is badly needed given the unreliable fitness of Jack Wilshere and the indifferent form of Carlos Sanchez at the present time.
With West Ham a little too close to the relegation zone for comfort, and still competing in the FA Cup while looking to drag themselves away from trouble, Moyes is acutely aware that he needs further competition for Declan Rice and Mark Noble, his only real options at the base of his midfield.
One other target the Hammers boss has identified is the highly rated Genk midfielder Berge, a player who has really caught the eye this season in the Champions League, form which has alerted a lot of top clubs to his potential.
The 21-year-old already has plenty of experience, having featured in more than 150 matches for the Belgian outfit, as well as picking up a number of caps for his country, numbers that are ideal for West Ham.
The Norway international could cost the Hammers around £18 million if they are to get him away from Genk, but he would represent a solid piece of business should a deal be concluded.