HAMMERS TALK: Irons join the race to sign Fulham midfielder

7:37am Monday 13th October 2008

WEST HAM have reportedly joined the race to sign Fulham star Jimmy Bullard.

The 29-year-old previously had a spell with the Hammers between 1999 and 2001, but failed to make the grade and was given a free transfer without making an appearance.

However, successful stints that followed at Peterborough, Wigan and now Fulham has seen the Newham-born midfielder linked with Middlesbrough, Everton and the east Londoners.

Bullard is a fans' favourite at Craven Cottage having played a key role in the club's Premier League survival last season.

But boss Roy Hodgson is reportedly not keen. The former Inter Milan boss is yet to be convinced that Bullard can play alongside Danny Murphy in central midfield and is believed to have refused discussions of a new contract with the playmaker.

That could see the west Londoners listen to offers of around £4million when the transfer window opens in January.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is said to be among the clubs interested.

However, the Italian has been told he would need to offload players at Upton Park before he can buy.

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