Former Birmingham co-owner David Sullivan is using Charlton Athletic as a back-up plan if his and the Gold brothers' bid to take over West Ham fails.

Following the sale of Birmingham to Hong Kong businessman Carsen Yeung, Sullivan along with partners David and Ralph Gold, are keen to buy another football club but are unsure about West Ham's enormous debt.

They all hold a sentimental and emotional attachment to the Hammers after growing up in the area but a debt in the vicinity of £100million has made them cautious.

It is believed that Charlton has become their plan B as it is close to home and the Addicks have scope for improvement as they sit second in League One.