Juventus favourites to sign Tiago Gabriel

West Ham United are facing competition from Juventus for Lecce star Tiago Gabriel, according to Football Insider.

The Hammers are keen on the 20-year-old Portugal Under-21 international centre-back, but Serie A giants Juventus are in the lead.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “Tiago Gabriel is somebody that’s emerged on the radar.

“Only 20 years old, so it could be a bit of a gamble by West Ham if they were to bring him in and bring him straight into the team.

“Ideally, I think West Ham would want somebody who can come in straight into the team and hit the ground running in the Premier League because that’s what they’re going to need in the second half of season if they are to get themselves out of trouble.

“Tiago Gabriel, I’m sure he’s somebody that West Ham have looked at. Brentford have also been mentioned as well, but it does seem reports in Italy are suggesting that Juventus are the current front-runner for the player.

“The Bianconeri would be hopeful that they could win the race for his signature if it does come down to it in the January window as well.

“Lecce, I’m sure if they’ve received a decent offer for the centre-back that they wouldn’t stand in his way and they would let him move on as well.

“So let’s wait and see what happens with him. But, there’s no doubt that West Ham will be in the market for defensive reinforcements in January.”