West Ham are reportedly concerned about Marlon Santos’ ability to adapt to the rough and tumble of the Premier League.
The Guardian report that the Hammers are having reservations about signing the player from Barcelona because of his strength.
The young defender has been heavily linked with a move to the London Stadium in recent weeks.
Reports in Spain have gone as far as saying a £17.5 million move is all-but completed, but West Ham are now unsure on the move.
Santos has caught the eye of several teams around Europe following a fruitful loan spell with Nice. Both West Ham and Leicester were said to be keen on bringing the player to the Premier League this summer.
New West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini has made re-shaping his defence one of the top priorities this summer following a disappointing campaign last season.
Fulham’s Ryan Fredericks is thought to be one of the first summer arrivals after agreeing terms to join on a free transfer.
