WEST HAM boss Gianfranco Zola has denied that he is considering quitting his post following demands by the club's Icelandic owners that he must sell players to balance the books.

There has been speculation linking a number of Hammers' players with moves away from Upton Park, with England defender Matthew Upson attracting plenty of admiring glances, while his defensive partner James Collins has reportedly been targeted by Stoke City and Aston Villa.

However, Zola insists he is under no pressure to sell, and remains focused on bolstering his squad before the transfer deadline passes.

He told Press Association: "There has a lot of talk about that (quitting). It's not true. I know the club is working and trying to make the team better but we are short.

"I haven't threatened the club that I would leave. It is not true.

"We're not really under pressure to sell players. Not for the moment. As far as I know, we are trying to reinforce the team.

"If we do anything, it is because we'd like to reinforce the team - as simple as that."

West Ham sporting director Gianluca Nani and chief executive Scott Duxbury are charged with taking care of the club's transfer dealings. However, Zola insists there is no unrest between him and the board.

“So far at this club I have a perfect understanding with Scott Duxberry and Gianluca Nani - we work very well," he said.

"All that you see here is a creation of all of us. It's a very good relationship and I trust this relationship.

"If something happens and I am not called to be asked, then it is going to be a different story but then I will tell you.

"To clarify it completely, I have been brought here to work on the pitch. That is my main concern.

"That is what I have been doing for 11 months. That is what I want to do. If someone has to be sold or bought, they ask me.

"I don't want to interfere in other things because I believe my main strength is working out there with the players.”

Reports suggest the Hammers are prepared to offer an improved £7million for Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh, after an initial £5million offer was rejected by the French club.