Hammers 'in talks' with Momo

That's Wigan's highly-rated Momo Diame, according to reports emanating late this afternoon...

Out of contract this summer, the 24-year-old has been interesting Liverpool, Manchester United and Everton amongst others, but according to Sky Sports the Hammers appear to have stolen a march over their rivals in the rase to sign the Senegalese international.

According to the 24-hour TV channel, West Ham are close to tieing up a deal to take the French-born defensive midfielder to east London on a free transfer, with talks said to be 'at an advanced stage'.

Diame joined Athletic from Spanish club Reyo in August 2009 in a cash-plus-player swap ( €3.8 million plus defender Antonio Amaya). At the time he was said to have been watched by the likes of Real Madrid and Arsenal having ressurrected his career in Spain.

Meanwhile West Ham confirmed this afternoon that they are hoping to bring in several players ahead of the beginning of the 2012/13 campaign.

"United are hoping to bring in at least five new players this summer, with possible targets identified across the field and a particular focus given to bringing in at least two new attacking players," a statement posted on whufc.com this afternoon read.

"There are currently bids in for two players and talks are also at an advanced stage to sign two of the best 'Bosman' transfers available in the Premier League" - one of whom is thought to be Diame.