Neymar had only just turned professional in 2009 but his outstanding talent ensured he was expected to become a Brazil football legend. Watch Neymar at age 17.
The report claims that the French club are looking for a fee over £20 million for the 31-year-old defender.
The Hammers confirmed the signing of Fabian Balbuena from Corinthians yesterday but new manager Manuel Pellegrini is still keen to bolster his defence.