Steed Malbranque and Young Close to Signing

Eatsleepsport.com report today that West Ham look close to signing Fulham's Steed Malbranque ahead of Man City.

"Fulham are keen to keep hold of the 26-year-old, who still has a year left to run on his contract, but after the player turned down a new deal, the Cottagers are ready to let him go to the highest bidder.

City have been tracking the player for the last 12 months but West Ham have nipped in and the chance to play Uefa Cup football looks set to sway his decision. Fulham will hold out for a fee in the region of £4.5million for the player, who has also attracted interest from Aston Villa."

The Star reports that West Ham are also set to complete the signing of Charlton Athletic defender Luke Young this week. The paper says the defender will move to Upton Park on Monday after the Hammers upped their bid to £4.2 million.