West Ham are rivaling Manchester City for Nancy fullback Mikael Chretien.
The 24-year-old Morocco international, who can play right midfield as well as right back, had been expected to join Sevilla or Real Betis but would prefer England.
He said: "My agent is in discussions with Betis, but I am aware of an English club keen to acquire me. I don't want to be at Nancy next season, as I've done enough there. I want to test myself in a top European league."