Fulham are demanding a staggering £90million for Joao Palhinha, in a bid to price West Ham out of a move for the midfielder.
West Ham have identified Palhinha as a potential replacement for Arsenal target Declan Rice but Fulham do not want to sell 27-year-old after his outstanding first season in the Premier League.
Palhinha has impressed since his £20million move from Sporting CP last summer and Fulham hope their valuation will discourage West Ham from bidding for him.
West Ham are also weighing up a move for Bristol City star Alex Scott as they plot a midfield rebuild ahead of the expected departure of Rice.
The Hammers are also interested in Ajax midfielder Edson Alvarez, but he will cost £40m and could be deemed too expensive.
Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips was another target for David Moyes but he has said he wants to stay at the Etihad Stadium next season.
Fulham manager Marco Silva is desperate to keep hold of Palhinha, who still has four years on his contract at Fulham.