GERAINT Williams is considering a loan move for West Ham striker Freddie Sears.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola has told Sears that his first-team opportunities next season are likely to be limited once Dean Ashton resumes training and would like to loan the striker to another club.

The 19-year-old has also expressed an interest in joining a club on a loan deal.

Crystal Palace boss Neal Warnock is reportedly interested in the Hornchurch-born striker.

But the Orient boss hopes to intice the Hammers forward to Brisbane Road next season.

However, he is concerned that Sears may be put off joining a club in League One.

Speaking to PA sport, Williams said: "Obviously if Freddie was available then we would be interested in him. I have known of him from being a young man and have watched him grow up through the system at West Ham and seen him do very well.

"Are West Ham United going to let somebody out to League One? If they are then we'd certainly be interested. Do they feel that with them being a Premier League club that if he isn't going to play for their first team, they might want him to go to a Championship club? That will be something to talk to their management about as well."

Last season Jordan Spence went on loan to Orient from West Ham.