West Ham defender Kurt Zouma is targeting a playing return for Manchester United.

The France international, David Moyes's big-money summer signing, has been out with a hamstring tendon injury since the Hammers' victory over his former club Chelsea in early December.

Zouma was initially expected to return at some point in February but now the Frenchman could be available for West Ham's trip to Manchester United on January 22.

The London Evening Standard says injuries to his first-choice central defenders have forced Moyes to consider movement in the January transfer window to provide cover.

While Zouma's return may change those plans, senior figures at the London Stadium still feel investment is needed in order to maintain a push for the Premier League's top four and their progress in the Europa League and FA Cup.