West Ham hope a player-plus-cash offer for Reading fullback Nicky Shorey will be enough to land the England international.

The Independent says West Ham made a £5m approach for the left-back but were rebuffed by Reading, but it is understood that Shorey is keen to move to Upton Park and has also rejected a new, £20,000-a-week contract at the Royals.

Shorey has two years left on his present deal which may influence whether or not the club decides to cash in on him now.

West Ham are expected to return to the negotiations before the end of this month and offer a player plus cash deal especially as Reading, who have shown an interest in midfielder Hayden Mullins, will want to sort out replacement for Shorey should he leave.