Fedor Smolov is known as the "Russian David Beckham"

West Ham are in talks to sign Russia captain Fedor Smolov from Russian Premier League team Krasnodar, according to Sky sources.

The 27-year-old striker wants to move to London and West Ham are trying to negotiate a loan with an option to buy, but Krasnodar want a £12m permanent deal.

Smolov has scored 59 times in 90 games for Krasnodar and 11 times in 28 games for Russia, including two memorable goals in a friendly against Spain in November.

West Ham have sold Diafra Sakho to Rennes

Smolov speaks fluent English and he has been described as the "Russian David Beckham", he is expected to be one of the stars of the World Cup finals in Russia this summer.

West Ham are keen to bring a striker in before Wednesday night's deadline after selling Diafra Sakho to Rennes and telling Andre Ayew he can leave the club.

They are also being linked with a move for former Southampton striker Graziano Pelle who is currently playing in China.