Fulham, West Ham United interested in Sao Paulo's Pablo Maia?

Fulham and West Ham United are reportedly interested in signing Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia.

Maia, who is 21 years of age, has been monitored by Premier League clubs for a considerable period, having impressed during his time with Sao Paulo.

The Brazilian has featured in 50 games across all competitions this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists.

Having played regularly this term, the defensive midfielder has now registered a total of seven goals and three assists in 111 appearances for Sao Paulo.

Maia won his first major honour of his senior career earlier this year after helping Sao Paulo win the Copa do Brasil.

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According to Jorge Nicola, via Fichajes, London clubs Fulham and West Ham are both considering a move for Maia.

Fulham are seemingly keen to strengthen in the middle of the park, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Joao Palhinha.

The Portugal international was close to completing a transfer to Bayern Munich in the summer, before the proposed deal fell through on deadline day.

Although he recently signed an extension with Fulham, Palhinha continues to be linked with a move away from Craven Cottage.

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West Ham United, meanwhile, bolstered their midfield in the summer with the additions of Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse following Declan Rice's departure.

However, they are continuing to track potential targets, amid speculation surrounding Tomas Soucek's future at the London Stadium.

With the Hammers currently competing in the Europa League, the chance to place in the UEFA competition could help David Moyes's side beat Fulham to Maia's signature if they decided to pursue a January move.

Sao Paulo will be under no pressure to sell, though, with four years left to run on Maia's contract, which expires in December 2027.