The Centre Circle

West Ham United have made a move to sign Lyon striker Frederic Piquionne. The French striker who was originally born in Noumea, New Caledonia was on loan at relegated Portsmouth last season and impressed with his work-rate and desire in very difficult circumstances. With the former Portsmouth manager Avram Grant hotly tipped to take over the reigns at Upton Park in the near future, it seems not so surprising that Piquionne could be the first of many new arrivals in East London before the start of next season. West Ham has just had reported bid of £5 million for Yakubu at Everton rejected by David Moyes, so it seems the Hammers have turned their attention to the 31 year old.

In a related note, West Ham have  released Mexican striker Guillermo Franco whose contact expired in June.