Report: West Ham United interested in Leganes star Gabriel Pires

West Ham United have reportedly expressed an interest in Leganes midfielder Gabriel Pires.

The 24-year-old has impressed for the La Liga club since joining permanently from Juventus in 2016.

After registering five goals and two assists for Leganes last season, Gabriel has scored three goals and claimed one assist in the 2017-18 campaign.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, West Ham are exploring two routes to sign the Brazilian when the transfer window reopens in January.

The Hammers are reportedly hoping to either sign Gabriel on loan for an initial fee of £1.7m with an option to buy for £8m, or immediately sign the player for £5m.

However, Gabriel's buyout clause is believed to be in the region of £17.8m and Leganes are unwilling to part with one of their key players midway through the season.

West Ham currently sit 17th in the Premier League table, while Leganes are 12th in the Spanish top flight.