West Ham United's move for Santos Laguna striker Christian Benitez could collapse over his poor English.

The Mirror says the Hammers have contacted Benitez's club Santos Laguna about taking the forward on a season-long loan with a view to a permanent deal.

But Benitez failed a government required English test during his spell this term on loan at Birmingham.

Rules for migrants mean they must have a recognised qualification for speaking English if they are to remain in the country on a work permit.

And the 23-year-old will now have to re-sit the test again this summer if he is to return to the UK. The Ecuador hitman, who notched four goals for City, is valued at around £7.5million by his Mexican club.

Hammers' owner David Sullivan, who took Benitez to St Andrews, is not willing to shell out for the striker. But Sullivan rates the forward and thinks he may fulfil his potential during a second season on loan in the Premier League.