According to his agent, Swiss international Valon Behrami could stay at West Ham because no club can afford to meet his price tag. A return to Italy has looked a strong possibility for the talented 24-year-old, who has been linked with both Roma and former club Lazio in recent weeks.

But his agent, Allessandro Beltrami, believes Behrami is more likely to sign a new deal with West Ham, where he has struck up a good relationship with boss Gianfranco Zola.

"A return to Italy for Behrami is a rumour," he told Itasport.

"His price tag is high - only a few teams can afford to spend 15million euros in January.

"I don't think that, at this time, either Roma or Lazio have this economic possibility.

"Only one other team in the Premier League (Manchester City ) could spend so much in this market."

Beltrami suggested that the most likely outcome for Behrami would be to pen a new deal with the Hammers.

"Valon is well at West Ham and we are discussing the renewal of his contract," he said.

"He is loved by the fans and he has a good relationship with the manager."