West Ham United are joining the race for Preston North End striker David Nugent.

The People says Nugent would prefer to go to an established Premiership club and does not fancy newly-promoted Sunderland.

That has left the way clear for Hammers boss Alan Curbishley to make a move, as he has the money available.

Curbishley fancies pairing Nugent with Dean Ashton when he returns to action this season as a fresh young strikeforce to take on the Premiership.