WEST HAM have submitted a written offer to Blackburn Rovers for striker Benni McCarthy, the Lancashire club have confirmed.

New Hammers owners David Sullivan and David Gold have made it their number one priority to bring in reinforcements in the attacking department, following injuries to Carlton Cole and Zavon Hines.

After reportedly failing in their bid to bring former Manchester United and Real Madrid hitman Ruud van Nistelrooy to Upton Park, McCarthy has become the east London club's prime target.

And Blackburn boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed that he would be willing to offload the wantaway South African if he can find a suitable replacement, after the striker failed to turn up to Rovers' last two training sessions.

Allardyce told the club's official website: “We are very disappointed with Benni's non-appearance for training and will deal with it separately should he remain here after the transfer window has closed.

“We have said all along that we will listen to offers, but only agree to sell if both the commercial and football reasons satisfy Blackburn Rovers. That situation remains unchanged.”

Sullivan revealed that he expects developments within days. “All of our irons are in the fire and hopefully in the next few days all will become clear,” he told Sky Sports.

The co-owner also claimed that the club had blocked the moves of several players since their arrival last week. “We've really gone the extra mile,” he added. “What we must be pleased about – what I'm pleased about as a West Ham fan – is that we have stopped the sale of two, maybe three top players.

“That is the main prize and the bonus is if we can now bring in one or two new players.”

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola insisted he was being consulted as the transfer window enters its final week.

“We need more strikers – that is the position we are lacking most at the moment,” said the Italian. “The club has said that we need reinforcements, but we haven't spoken about any budgets.

“I trust them (the owners) and that is good enough for me. Obviously the players have to be my choice, but they are very collaborative.”