Chinese Super League club Shanghai SIPG are set to launch a £45m bid for Marko Arnautovic, according to the Times.
West Ham face a battle to keep their star striker amid strong interest from China. After the Hammers resisted a £35m bid, Shanghai SIPG are now set to test them with a higher offer.
It remains to be seen whether West Ham will settle for the £45m transfer fee proposed by the Chinese top division side.
West Ham signed Arnautovic from Stoke City in summer 2017 and he had a slow start to life in East London.
But the Austria international was reborn under David Moyes, who turned him into a centre-forward. Arnautovic’s tally of 11 goals helped keep West Ham up and cemented his place as a firm fans’ favourite among the Hammers faithful.
This season, the 29-year-old has followed up his good form, scoring nine times in all competitions despite suffering some injury blows.
Shanghai SIPG appear to be the Chinese club who are keen on Arnautovic and they have until the end of February to secure a deal.
The Red Eagles are the reigning champions, having won the 2018 Chinese Super League competition.
Brazilian duo Hulk and Oscar play for Shanghai SIPG, who are desperate to land Arnautovic in a £45m deal.
They could reportedly offer the Austrian wages of £300k-per-week, according to The Times.