WEST HAM could have a fight on their hands to keep their star players after reports emerged that Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is planning a £15million double raid for defenders Matthew Upson and Herita Ilunga.

The Daily Star claims the Spaniard will target the Upton Park club when the transfer window re-opens in January, with Carlton Cole also said to be on the wish-list.

Benitez is understood to be a big fan of Upson, while left-back Ilunga has also caught the eye since his arrival in east London from Toulouse in 2007.