Armando Izzo has been called up by Italy but is yet to play for the national team

West Ham are in talks to sign Genoa defender Armando Izzo and are also interested in Barcelona's Marlon Santos, Sky sources understand.

Izzo joined Genoa from Serie B side Avellino in 2014 after beginning his career with hometown club Napoli.

The 26-year-old's impressive performances this season have seen him linked with a number of Serie A clubs despite his current deal running until 2022.

But West Ham, who appointed Manuel Pellegrini as their new boss last week, are also keen to land the defender to help shore up their backline.

Manuel Pellegrini appears keen to prioritise strengthening West Ham's defence

Sky sources understand West Ham are also interested in signing Barcelona centre-back Marlon Santos who spent last season on loan at Ligue 1 side Nice.

Former Manchester City head coach Pellegrini penned a three-year deal to succeed David Moyes as Hammers boss. The Chilean said he wanted to play attacking football and was hopeful of bringing in "four or five players" in order to strengthen the team for next season.

West Ham finished 13th last season but had the joint-worst defence in the Premier League along with Stoke, conceding 68 goals in 38 matches.