West Ham close in on Appiah

West Ham United are hoping to wrap up the signing of Ghana captain Stephen Appiah before the transfer window shuts at midnight, according to reports. The east Londoners are believed to have agreed terms with the 27-year-old, who claims to be a free agent after negotiating an exit from Fenerbahce. However, the Hammers first need to confirm the player's contract status with the Turkish club.

Appiah had been in dispute with the club following a knee injury and his subsequent lack of involvement in the 2008 African Cup of Nations.The powerful midfielder has previously played for Italian clubs Udinese, Parma, Brescia and Juventus.

And he has been linked with a sensational move back to Turin giants Juventus in recent days, while his agent revealed he has also received numerous offers from England, Scotland and Spain.