West Ham United will try to use the next 10 days to narrow  the search for managerial candidates to take over from Sam Allardyce.

And two names that are in the frame are Rafa Benitez and David Moyes …although neither could be described as “close” at the moment.

ClaretandHugh has learned exclusively that the Naples boss has been mentioned as a possible target inside the club although wages of around £120,000 a week may be a problem.

However, the club is aware that the former Liverpool boss may be keen to return to England where his wife Montse is still living.

A source told us: “It’s all about who wants to come to West Ham. Rafa’s name is being mentioned but there have been no approaches at this stage.

He won the Italian Cup last season and works with quality players so that’s a question only he can answer.”

With few options available to them, the Hammers may make an approach to David Moyes’ agents should the board stick with their reference for a British boss.

Our source revealed: “The top clubs have seen his frailties and it’s unlikely they would come for him at the moment and he has been successful at a club of similar size and finances to the hammers at Everton. It’s possible.”