WEST HAM manager Gianfranco Zola has revealed he is close to agreeing a new contract with the club.

The Hammers are understood to have drawn up an improved deal for the Italian, after an impressive first season at the helm.

Zola insists he is keen to finish what he has started at Upton Park.

"The fans here know the situation," said Zola in the Evening Standard. "I have started something at this club and I want to see how it goes in the next few years."

Zola insists any deal must ensure the coaching staff he so values - including assistant Steve Clarke – will also be retained.

"The club knows that is the first condition. This is not just about me but the whole team,” he added. “The secret this season has been that everybody has done a great job together and now we must go forward as a team otherwise we will stay where we are.

"On the contract here are some positive things. We will see but hopefully in the next few weeks things will be settled. Hopefully there will be no problems. The club wants to look after us and I hope everyone will be satisfied."