WEST Ham’s potential move for Lyon forward Frederic Piquionne could be hijacked by Premier League new boys West Brom as the Baggies close in on a deal for the former Portsmouth front man, writes Craig Rodhouse.

The 31-year-old has been in high demand throughout the summer and it was believed that new Hammers boss Avram Grant was planning a move for the Frenchman, who he managed last season during Piquionne’s loan spell at Portsmouth.

However, it now seems that West Brom have taken the lead in the race to sign the former Monaco man, with other Premier League clubs including Fulham and Blackburn all taking an interest in the cut-back price of $1 million that the forward is reportedly rated at.

Piquionne has made it abundantly clear that he wishes to leave the French giants after failing to hold down a starting place, with the Premier League the only destination he will consider.

He told French sources: "I want to play so I need to leave. It will be England or nothing else."

However, it is still believed that Grant’s relationship with the forward may be enough to lure Piquionne to Upton Park this summer.