Rumour: West Ham's pursuit of £7 million Rickie Lambert intensify

Rickie Lambert of Southampton celebrates scoring his team’s first goal

According to the Daily Mail, stalled negotiations between West Ham United and Southampton over a possible transfer for striker Rickie Lambert are back on, after the recent crisis at St Mary’s.

Sam Allardyce and West Ham have identified the English forward as the ideal solution to their goal starven squad. The Hammers are ready to offer close to £7 million for the goal scorer, however, a concrete deal is yet to be struck.

Southampton, who had a flying start to the season, have plunge into crisis after the shock departure of executive chairman Nicola Cortese, who has been instrumental in the club’s change in fortunes.

A change in management and uncertainity surrounding the Saints might well aid the East London club in securing their target. West Ham United are currently languishing in the relegation zone, and desperately need some inspiration to drag themselves out of danger.