West Ham United are favourites to sign Barcelona defender Marlon this summer, according to a report in the Spanish media.
Mundo Deportivo is claiming that the Hammers have jumped to the front of the queue for the Brazilian and the La Liga giants are waiting for a formal bid from the London Stadium outfit.
The 22-year-old has attracted interest from other Premier League sides in the past, however, the arrival of Manuel Pellegrini could help put the Irons in pole position.
The Brazil Under-23 international would be a welcomed addition to the side, having impressed for Nice in Ligue One this season, making 27 appearances for the club.
He has found life difficult at the Nou Camp, having featured just three times for the Catalan’s senior side and could be prepared to make a move for regular first-team football, with Pellegrini interested.
The Chilean took control of West Ham on Tuesday when he took over from David Moyes and is expected to make a number of changes to the east London side.
The former Manchester City manager will be looking to bring an attractive style of play to the Hammers and will be hoping to try and guide them to a European football spot, however, it is considered he will need to make a number of additions.
The former Premier League winner has been looking at strengthening his team in all areas of the pitch, from the goalkeeper all the way to the front men.
Marlon would be considered to be a great buy for the Hammers as they have a need for a centre-back and could make a deal happen this summer.