Hammers close to Downing capture

West Ham are edging closer to a £6million deal for Liverpool winger Stewart Downing, according to reports.

The Hammers were linked with a move for the England international last month but the rumours were brushed off as just paper talk by assistant manager Neil McDonald before the player admitted he wanted to stay at Liverpool and fight for his place in the first team.

However, it is believed Sam Allardyce has increased his initial offer of £5million, which was rejected, to £6million and Liverpool are now prepared to let Downing leave Anfield after two frustrating years since signing from Aston Villa.

Allardyce sees Downing as an important piece in his attacking line and believes he will fit in well on the opposite wing to Matt Jarvis and can provide club-record signing Andy Carroll with top-quality service up front.

Downing is currently in Dublin with Liverpool for a friendly with Celtic but is expected to begin personal talks with the Hammers upon his return early next week.