Big Sam hoping to tempt Anelka to Upton Park

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West Ham manager Sam Allardyce has spoken of his admiration for French international Nicolas Anelka, according to the London Evening Standard.

The former Chelsea striker is currently in talks to terminate his current contract with Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua, and is rumoured to favour a return to the capital. Were West Ham to make a move, they would likely face stiff competition for his signature with a number of clubs rumoured to be interested including fellow London club QPR.

West Ham have the advantage of being managed by Sam Allardyce, who signed the temperamental striker during his reign at Bolton Wanderers, and may hope the striker may be tempted by the possibility of a reunion with his former mentor.

The Irons are looking to supplement their front line with new signings having gone into the New Year with a meagre 24 goals this season, putting them amongst the lowest scoring teams in the league. Anelka’s proven record of hitting the net could make all the difference for a Hammers side looking to avoid being dragged into a relegation battle.

They were knocked back recently in their approach for Southampton striker Rickie Lambert and are desperate to add to their striking options with Andy Carroll, Modibo Maiga and Ricardo Vaz Te having managed a paltry 6 goals between them this season.

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