West Ham are exploring the possibility of signing midfielder Joao Mario on loan from Inter Milan for another season.

The Portugal international, who is currently away with the national side preparing for the World Cup in Russia and scored in a 2-2 draw with Tunisia, spent the second half of the season on loan with the Hammers.

The 25-year-old made 14 appearances during his spell in east London, scoring twice, and impressed former manager David Moyes with his consistent work rate, often finishing top of the pile when it came to running statistics and distance covered.

While the Hammers are keen on a loan, Inter would prefer to negotiate a permanent transfer and rate Mario at £26million.

Speaking at the end of the season, Mario said: “It has been an amazing experience for me. I want to say thank you to West Ham for everything they have done for me as well as my teammates, and my coaches. I am really happy with the last six months and we will see what happens.”