West Ham United are ‘finalising personal terms’ with Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.

The 29-year-old enjoyed a productive season-long loan spell at the London Stadium throughout 2021/22 and now appears close to making his stay at the club permanent.

What is the latest news involving Areola?

Sheth recently reported that talks are continuing between West Ham and Areola’s representatives over the details of the player’s potential contract.

The reliable reporter also stated that there is a ‘willingness from all parties’ to get the deal done, although the capital club could face late competition from one of their Premier League rivals.

French outlet RMC Sport have claimed that Newcastle United have now entered the race to sign the 6 foot 5 shot-stopper, who earns £120,000-per-week, potentially complicating dealings.

It’s believed that the Magpies have initiated proceedings to hijack the deal for Areola as they look for a new number one between the sticks.

West Ham manager David Moyes may be confident of winning the race for the talented star’s signature given his existing relationship with the player, though, potentially adding to the possible arrival of Nayef Aguerd.

What has Sheth said about Areola?

Sheth has revealed that the West Ham hierarchy are attempting to come to an agreement over personal terms with Areola before officially triggering his £11 million option-to-buy clause.

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He told GiveMeSport: “A player that they had at the club last season; he was effectively their cup goalkeeper Alphonse Areola.

“The deal that they did with Paris Saint-Germain last summer was for a loan with an option to buy, and West Ham want to trigger that option. It's around £11 million. I think they are finalising personal terms with Areola before triggering that option.”

Would Areola be a good signing?

Areola was West Ham’s second-choice keeper behind Lukasz Fabianski last season, but he was hailed as “fantastic” by club legend Mark Noble for his telling contributions in the cup competitions.

The France international leaked just 15 goals in his 18 appearances across all competitions, keeping eight clean sheets along the way.

Areola also played a pivotal part as the Hammers reached the semi-finals of the Europa League and the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup in what was a successful campaign for Moyes’ charges.

Only time will tell if West Ham can tie Areola down to a long-term deal, but if so, he could be the natural heir to Fabianski, who turned 37 in April.