West Ham remain hopeful that after paying off Alou Diarra they will be successful in moving Modibo Maiga out of the club ahead of the new season.

And they are ready to write off the six million  euros transfer fee paid to Socheaux as they bid to free up even more wages.

ClaretandHugh have been told that moves are going on in France where there is “some speculative interest” in the striker who has failed to fire at Upton Park.

A source explained: “We remain hopeful that something is going to happen. It’s a huge disappointment to be in this position but we remain hopeful.

“We have been in contact with some clubs out there and there is some interest. We are working on the situation.”

He added: “They are aware the player has goals in him – 24 in 59 games at his last club – and it really does seem a case of him not being suited to the English game.”