West Ham closing in on Fonte?

West Ham United are reportedly close to confirming the signing of Southampton centre-back Jose Fonte. The Portugal international has made his mind up for a fresh challenge after it was revealed he would not be offered a contract extension.

The Euro 2016 winner has been excluded in recent outings for the Saints, and it is now reported that he is nearing a move to the London Stadium.

According to Sky Sports News, the Hammers are in pole position to sign the experienced defender, who has just 18 months left on his previous deal.

Slaven Bilic's side are currently in negotiations over a transfer fee for Fonte but the deal is likely to go through in the upcoming week.

Fonte has not featured for Southampton since January 5, at the time when he handed a transfer request to the hierarchy.