West Ham United could be preparing for a difficult season ahead.

The east London club have showed signs of decline in recent campaigns after failing to kick on and push towards the top half of the table.

As a result the Hammers have instead found themselves battling away at the bottom of the league.

Last season things got a little too close for comfort with the Irons only able to avoid the drop in the final week of the season after a poor campaign to that point.

Supporters had hoped that a strong summer in the transfer market could see them kick on and push themselves up the table, something which has happened with positive results in the last week before the international break.

But fans will be looking for more.

David Moyes' side have signed just two first team players this summer in the shape of Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal.

The Hammers had planned to sign a central defender before the international break however they suffered a late setback when Fikayo Tomori turned down the chance to move to the London Stadium.

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But as well as a defender it seems that West Ham are looking for attacking reinforcements.

Several players have already been linked, but according to The Telegraph it seems that the club are stepping up one pursuit.

It's claimed that West Ham are in talks over a move for Josh King.

The Bournemouth star is available for a move after suffering relegation from the Premier League last term.

Valued at £14.4million by Transfermarkt, the Norwegian international has scored 42 goals in the top flight for the Cherries in recent seasons.

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West Brom are also said to be keen on a move, however it's claimed that David Moyes' side are leading the charge.

GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...

This is exactly the sort of signing that West Ham United should be looking to do.

Despite suffering relegation, Josh King is a player who is a proven performer in the Premier League and certainly deserves another opportunity at that level.

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Described by Kevin Phillips as an 'exciting' player, the Norwegian international could make a real difference at the London Stadium.

West Ham need to add quality to their squad and in the shape of the former Manchester United man they would be getting a player with the experience required to lead the team.

That could be pivotal over the course of the season, and for that reason West Ham need to get the deal done.