Arsenal have pulled out of the race to sign Marouane Chamakh after refusing to up their £6million valuation of the Bordeaux striker.
Arsene Wenger is a huge fan of the Morocco international and will try to sign him on a Bosman free transfer next summer.
But West Ham United and Fulham could scupper the Arsenal manager's plans by making a move for Chamakh before the transfer window closes early next month.
Sunderland, Blackburn and Tottenham Hotspur had also show interest, but have signed alternative strikers after being quoted a £15m price-tag.
West Ham yesterday emerged as favourites to snatch Chamakh, but it is believed the bid they are preparing is actually lower than the £6m Arsenal offer laughed off as ridiculous by Bordeaux.
Fulham's bid could be more credible as Bordeaux are interested in taking Diomansy Kamara as a replacement.
Cottagers boss Roy Hodgson has looked at a number of striking reinforcements after showing a willingness to sell Bobby Zamora to Hull City.
Chamakh may prefer to wait for Arsenal after receiving glowing praise from Wenger and stressed his professionalism after scoring in Bordeaux's 4-1 league opener against Lens on Sunday.
Source: Daily_Mail