Everton are reportedly showing concrete interest in Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Carlos Soler, but it seems they are set to lose out to West Ham United.

Sky Deutschland journalist Florian Plettenberg reported on Friday that the Toffees have positioned themselves as contenders for Soler, though Foot Mercato suggests that the player is now ‘one step away’ from joining the Hammers.

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has made Soler a priority signing, appreciating the 27-year-old’s profile.

The London club appears to be close to fulfilling Lopetegui’s wishes, with negotiations between the parties intensifying in recent hours. As a result, Soler is now reportedly ‘very close’ to making the move to West Ham.

The Hammers are prepared to pay €23 million to secure the Spanish international, with optimism surrounding an ‘imminent outcome’ to the deal. AS has also reported that the player, specifically requested by Lopetegui, is on the verge of joining the Premier League side.

Discussions between West Ham and PSG are advanced, with both clubs aiming to finalise the transfer ‘by Monday at the latest.’ The final details under consideration include whether to make the deal a permanent purchase or a loan with an obligation to buy.

AS reports that West Ham are contemplating a €20 million obligation, slightly less than the €23 million figure initially quoted by Foot Mercato.

With the transfer window ticking down, it appears that West Ham are in pole position to sign Soler, leaving Everton’s interest in the midfielder likely unfulfilled.

The move, if completed, would represent a significant coup for Lopetegui’s side as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.