Yossi Benayoun has rejected a new £50,000-a-week contract offer from West Ham United.

The Daily Mail says Hammers boss Alan Curbishley had believed that Benayoun would remain at Upton Park after they preserved their Premiership status.

The Israel midfielder is a firm favourite at the club, but he believes he can play for a team competing in the top four of the Premiership, despite the Hammers being prepared to triple his £18,000-a-week salary.