Fabricio Bruno's teammate speaks out as 'dream' £12.5m West Ham transfer nears

Flamengo defender Leo Ortiz has revealed a move to West Ham is the “dream” for teammate Fabricio Bruno.

Bruno sat out of his team’s Copa Libertadores victory over Millionarios earlier this week as he closes in on a move to the Hammers.

Standard Sport understands talks have progressed well between the two clubs over a deal worth an initial £12.5m, plus a potential further £2.5m in add-ons.

The 28-year-old is on course to become the first signing of the Julen Lopetegui era and his arrival could spark a significant defensive overhaul.

Nayef Aguerd is attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, while Angelo Ogbonna is out of contract with a decision still to be made on his future.

The defence is believed to be something of a priority this summer after the Irons conceded 74 times in the Premier League season just gone – the most of any team to have avoided relegation.

Bruno was rewarded for his fine club form with a Brazil debut in March against England, albeit the return of PSG’s Marquinhos and Arsenal defender Gabriel has seen him left out of their Copa America squad.

Speaking to Globo Esporte, Ortiz opened up on Bruno’s desire to join the Hammers.

“I hope for him, that it’s for his own good.

“It’s a dream for him too, he’s already made that clear, he’s already expressed it. So we know that sometimes dreams don’t knock twice. I hope for his happiness. If it’s best for him, let him go. We’ll always be rooting for him if that happens.”

West Ham are also in talks with Sheffield United goalkeeper Wes Foderingham to act as third-choice behind Alphonse Areola and Lukasz Fabianski.

The 33-year-old appeals to the club as an experienced head who would add to their quota of homegrown players.