West Ham United have entered talks with Simone Zaza's representatives in a bid to avoid paying a potential £20million fee.

The Sun reports that the Hammers are desperate not to pay the appearance fee they agreed with Juventus when taking the Italian striker on loan from Juventus in the summer.

25-year-old Zaza, who has featured a total of 10 times (8 in the league) for Slaven Bilic so far this term, will trigger a £20m permanent sale if he reaches 14 appearances for the East London club.

However, West Ham are hoping they can avoid the scenario as they have been unhappy with Zaza since his arrival at the London Stadium.

A source told The Sun: “We are currently in conversations aimed at changing the appearance clause or having it dropped altogether.

“We need the terms changing if the player is to remain with us."

Zaza could play against Manchester United in the EFL Cup quarter-final on Wednesday night which will count towards the total.

The source added: “Cup matches didn't count at the early stage of the competition.

“But this is a quarter final and this is included in the deal."

It is understood that West Ham will be successful in having the appearance clause cut from Zaza's contract.

The Italy international continues to be linked with a potential January move to either Napoli or AC Milan.