Reading fullback Nicky Shorey has welcomed interest from West Ham United.

Shorey, who grew up near West Ham's training ground in Chadwell Heath and has family connections with the club, is in contract talks with Reading but admits being linked with the likes of Alan Curbishley's side is flattering.

The Upton Park boss is expected to strengthen his defence this summer, particularly with Paul Konchesky out of favour since Curbishley's appointment in December.

"I've been happy at Reading for a long time now but we'll just have to see what happens," said Shorey in the Reading Evening Post.

"I'm going into the talks wanting to sort out my future with the club because I've done well at Reading."

He added: "Interest from those clubs is definitely flattering.

"I've always wanted to do as well as I can and when you do well, speculation will always be there. To be honest, though, I can never say never."