West Ham face missing out on New York Red Bulls centre-back Aaron Long.
Sky Sports says West Ham want to sign Long but cannot complete a deal because he is unable to secure a work permit at the moment.
Long is the MLS defender of the year and has played in six of USA's past seven games, including the Gold Cup final.
The 26-year-old has a £4m release clause and wants to move to the Premier League.
Lyon are now emerging as favourites for Long's transfer.