Reds 'back in' for Hammers ace

Liverpool have reportedly renewed their interest in West Ham and England striker Carlton Cole, who could be available for £7million.

A representative of the Anfield club is said to have been at the Hammers' Boxing Day victory over Fulham at Craven Cottage, where the 27-year-old scored twice in a 3-1 win.

Liverpool manager Roy Hodgson made an attempt to sign England international Cole, who has netted just five times in all competitions this season, in the summer transfer window.

But a deadline day deal was not agreed and West Ham boss Avram Grant remains unwilling to sell his star players, such as Cole, Matthew Upson and Scott Parker, as he battles against Premier League relegation.

However, it is understood that Hammers co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan would be prepared to listen to offers of at least £7million.

Hodgson has made no secret of the fact that he wants to increase his attacking options and find a partner for Fernando Torres to decrease the burden on the Spain international.

The Liverpool boss is desperate to be backed in the transfer window by his club's owners, John Henry's New England Sports Ventures, following their takeover in mid-October and he has also been linked with PSV Eindhoven forward Ola Toivonen.

But, whether or not it is a poker face to misguide rivals, Hodgson has also said that he does not expect to sign any 'first-team material' until the end of January.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.