West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola has revealed they're close to settling the Carlos Tevez issue with Sheffield United.

It appears a settlement of around £10million - spread over a period over five years - has been struck.

Hammers manager Zola therefore hopes he can soon get back to the business of planning for next season and beyond.

"I hope it will be resolved soon and I am confident it will be," said the Italian.

"It's looking good at the moment and it would be a good thing for the club -because then we can sit down and plan for the future, knowing exactly where we are and what we are dealing with.

"I believe they are trying to find an agreement, and I hope they do that as soon as possible. That would give us a clear picture for the future, and we can sit down and plan."

Asked if he is troubled by the Tevez saga, and the constant speculation over the financial viability of the club's Icelandic owners, Zola remained pragmatic.

"I personally have to focus on the work on the pitch. That is why the club employed me," he said.

"I'm 100% focused on my job. It is my responsibility to make sure things on the pitch work well. If I can do that I can be helpful to the club.

"This is the world of football. I know it is not just about kicking the ball for us right now; it is dealing with other things. But whatever the worry, I know I can switch on to the football and not let other things get in the way."