The final chapter in the Joao Mario transfer saga appears to be winding down as West Ham United appear to be very close to bringing the Portuguese international to England from Inter Milan.

Reports in England and Italy have the 25-year-old set to leave the San Siro very soon as West Ham manager David Moyes eyes more power for his midfield. The Independent in England reported the deal is close to complete and should be by the end of the week.

According to Italian media, West Ham will pay €1.2 million for the loan which contains a purchase option at the end of the term. Sky Sports Italia suggest the cost of purchase is dependent on how Mario performs over the next six months. Other reports suggest €1.5 million loan and €35 million purchase option.

Mario was purchased by Inter in 2016 for around €40 million from Sporting Lisbon after helping lead Portugal to the Euro 2016 title.

He had been reluctant to a move to West Ham as he sought Champions League play, but his complete lack of time at Inter sold him on the loan. He has made 14 Serie A appearances, notching five assists.

Another catalyst is Inter’s loan deal to bring FC Barcelona midfielder Rafinha to the San Siro – a deal completed earlier this week.

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