West Ham United are strengthening their pursuit of Brentford striker Scott Hogan as they seek an immediate lift following their humiliating FA Cup exit against Manchester City.
The Hammers have had a second bid of around £11.5million turned down for the 24-year-old Championship striker but talks are continuing between the clubs in the hope of striking a deal that would see him move across London for around £12.5m.
West Ham have turned to 14-goal Hogan after accepting they are unlikely to prise away Jermain Defoe from Sunderland. Although the forward is believed to fancy a return to his first club, Sunderland are adamant they will not sell and the player has shown no sign of handing in a transfer request.