by Craig Rodhouse

AS ONE English central defender looks set to leave the Hammers, another ex-England international could be entering the fray at Upton Park, in the form of Sol Campbell, according to reports.

Current defender Matthew Upson has been continually linked with a move away from the East London side throughout the summer, with Sunderland potential suitors.

However, it now seems that Avram Grant is set to steal a march on Sunderland and Celtic by offering the 35-year-old a lifeline in London.

It was reported last week that the Black Cats had tabled a contract offer for the former Arsenal man; whose contract expired at the end of last season at the Emirates. However, it is believed that Campbell’s preference is to stay in the capital, therefore making the Hammers an ideal destination.

It has been a roller-coaster year for Campbell who started last season at league two outfit Notts County, before getting a dream move back to former club Arsenal, for whom he made 14 appearances last term.