WEST HAM will ‘go the extra mile’ in their efforts to sign striker Robbie Keane from Tottenham.

The Hammers outlined their intentions to bring the Spurs hitman on board after weeks of speculation about their interest in the Irishman.

Co-owner David Gold made public his admiration for Keane, just a day after securing the services of Senegalese striker Demba Ba from Hoffenheim for an undisclosed fee.

“He is clearly available and quality players rarely are,” said Gold.

“Our people will go the extra mile to try and bring in players that otherwise you wouldn’t get if you didn’t pursue.

“Robbie Keane is a player we greatly admire. We see him as a potential acquisition.

“We are looking at all players that are available from top-quality clubs.

“David Sullivan (joint West Ham owner) was up until the early hours of the morning still pursuing targets we have.

“It will probably go right to the wire.”

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has already said that Keane can leave the club during the January transfer window, although it is thought he is keen to offload the Irish international on a permanent deal rather than a loan.

West Ham have already made three signings during the window, Gary O’Neil joining from Middlesbrough and Wayne Bridge coming in on loan until the end of the season from Manchester City, as well as the acquisition of Ba.