West Ham United want £5 million for striker Carlton Cole.
The People says Stoke have been told to improve their bid for Cole.
The Potters have lodged a £3million offer for the England forward - but West Ham will not let him leave unless their £5m valuation figure is met.
While Tony Pulis considers his next move, West Brom boss Roy Hodgson remains keen on Cole and could hijack any deal.
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