Agent claims Marega is banished until Thursday, confirms £26m West Ham bid

Moussa Marega's agent has told Record that the Porto striker has been sent away by the club until Thursday as West Ham United continue to pursue his signature.

Marega, 27, had a low-key opening to his career with the likes of Evry FC, Le Poire-sur-Vie, Amiens and Esperance de Tunis, but has made a name for himself in Portugal.

The Mali international smashed 15 goals in 34 games for Maritimo, earning himself a move to Porto, but after just one goal in 13 games, he headed out on loan to Vitoria Guimaraes.

With 14 goals in 31 outings, Marega proved that he could be useful to Porto, and he showed that with 23 goals in 38 appearances this past season, helping them win the Portuguese league title.

Now though, Marega is attracting interest; capable of playing up front or out wide, Marega possesses great strength and pace, but also finishing ability and work rate, making him hugely appealing.

West Ham United have been heavily linked with a move for Marega as Manuel Pellegrini pursues attacking reinforcements, and the situation has taken another turn today.

Marega's agent Azziz Ben Aissa has told Record that Porto boss Sergio Conceicao did tell Marega he could go this summer, but is now going back on his word – and has banished Marega until Thursday, when the English window closes.

Ben Aissa confirmed a €30million (£26.7million) approach from West Ham, and noted that Marega wants to fulfil his dream of playing in England, hoping that common sense will prevail and a move will take place.

"Conceicao told Moussa that it was time to leave and a good proposal would be accepted," said Ben Aissa. "They argued and Sérgio Conceicao dismissed him until August 9, which is when they close the transfer window in England. Marega is very proud to have been a champion at FC Porto. He has the club at heart, but he also has a boyhood dream: to play in England," he added.