West Ham have this morning issued their final and “ultimate” refusal to consider any bid for Andy Carroll but claimed: “We can’t stop other clubs showing interest.”

The Hammers have taken a national newspaper report saying  the Geordies are  preparing a bid a tad more seriously than may have been expected.

This is because the story was written by a journalist who has been close to the Newcastle board for many years.

But in what is their “final” statement on the position a source told ClaretandHugh: “If they come in at all they will come in low.

“But it will make absolutely no difference. Whatever they bid we won’t sell – simple as that That’s final.

“Andy Carroll is an essential element of this team and our record signing – why would we sell?”