West Ham United midfielder Scott Parker is being linked with Manchester United.

The Daily Express says United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is seeking a free-scoring midfielder for the summer market.

Ferguson has extolled the virtues of both Frank Lampard and Steve Gerrard but knows they are out of reach. With doubts surrounding whether Owen Hargreaves can ever be fit enough to resume his career and if Anderson can fulfil his potential, West Ham's Parker has the skill and energy to be a more than useful midfield acquisition.

If Joe Cole fails to resolve his contract dispute at Chelsea and becomes a free agent, United seem sure to move.