RUMOURS: West Ham interested in Long

Southampton striker Shane Long is high on Slaven Bilic's list of targets for West Ham, according to reports in 'the Irish Sun'.

The Republic of Ireland attacker has started just five Premier League games for the Saints this season, and is seen as a candidate to lead the Hammers attack.

Bilic will be without Andre Ayew for the early part of the year due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, while Diafra Sakho is currently sidelined with a back injury.

Long would provide competition for Andy Carroll up front as Bilic looks to continue West Ham's climb up the table following a slow start to the season.