WEST HAM are understood to have had a £5million bid for Everton striker Yakubu rejected.

The Hammers are keen to strengthen their frontline ahead of next season, with Guillermo Franco admitting he will be leaving the Upton Park club and deals expiring for Ilan and Mido.

Owners David Sullivan and David Gold are thought to have turned their attention to Yakubu, but the Daily Mail claim the Toffees have rebuffed the Hammers' initial offer.

It is thought that Everton boss David Moyes is keen on recouping most of the £11.25m he paid for the 27-year-old.