West Ham United are 'pushing' to sign Filip Kostic and the London Stadium target's agent could mean they have a 'trump card', according to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook.
The Hammers have made four signings since the summer transfer window opened for business, with the quartet setting them back more than £80million, but boss David Moyes is looking to add further reinforcements.
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What's the latest news involving Kostic?
West Ham made their interest in Kostic clear by launching a bid for the Eintracht Frankfurt star earlier this week.
Although the Hammers' £12.5million offer was rejected, they remain in negotiations with the Bundesliga club.
It is understood that Frankfurt are seeking up to £16million for Kostic, but West Ham are confident of being able to agree a fee between the two clubs' valuations.
The Hammers are eager to pounce as the 48-cap Serbia international has entered the final 12 months of his £43,000-per-week contract.
Transfer insider Dean Jones has previously told GIVEMESPORT that West Ham are ‘optimistic’ that Kostic will head to the London Stadium before the September 1 deadline.
What has Alex Crook said about Kostic?
Crook understands that West Ham are continuing to pursue Kostic and could persuade the 29-year-old to make the move with a more lucrative contract.
The talkSPORT reporter believes the big-money arrival of Gianluca Scamacca could also play into the Hammers' hands as the Italian striker is represented by the same agent as Kostic.
Crook told GIVEMESPORT: "Obviously, West Ham can offer more in wages. They're still pushing and are still hopeful.
"I think they're hoping their trump card can be the fact that he's got the same agent as Scamacca."
Are West Ham likely to get their man?
Frankfurt are keen to hold onto their wing-back and boss Oliver Glasner has revealed he is confident, as it stands, that Kostic will remain with his current employers.
It has been claimed that the Serbian may need to be convinced to join West Ham as it would result in him giving up the opportunity to compete in the Champions League in the upcoming campaign.
Frankfurt qualified for Europe's elite club competition after winning the Europa League last season, with them eliminating the east Londoners at the semi-finals stage.
However, West Ham are reportedly willing to offer Kostic a contract worth £120,000-per-week, which would see him more than double his current salary, and that could play a pivotal role in negotiations.