West Ham United have made contact with Atalanta striker German Denis.

TMW says the Hammers have made informal contact with Denis' representatives this week.

West Ham have swooped for Manuel Lanzini this week and are now looking at fellow Argie Denis.

Denis, an experienced centre-forward, would arrive as cover for the injured Andy Carroll and as a replacement for the released Carlton Cole.

Atalanta chief Pierpaolo Marino was asked about the Hammers' interest last night.

"We want to keep Denis but as always it is down to the will of the player," said Marino.