HAMMERS winger Matthew Etherington is on the brink of being sold to Stoke City, according to reports.
BBC Sport understands that the 27-year-old, who is the longest-serving member of the current West Ham squad, is likely to complete a move to the Britannia Stadium in the coming days for an undisclosed fee.
Etherington made a successful return from injury in front of the Irons' faithful in the 3-0 FA Cup third round win over Barnsley on Saturday. But with the club reportedly willing toi listen to offers for a number of their players, the midfielder may have played his last game for Gianfranco Zola's men.
Etherington moved to Upton Park in 2003 when he joined from Tottenham and was a key figure in the side's successful promotion bid in 2005, while he was also voted Hammer of the Year the previous season.
Should the transfer go through, it could mark the first in a chain of deals, with the likes of Craig Bellamy, Scott Parker and Matthew Upson attracting interest from Manchester City, amongst others.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here