Paolo di Canio has spoken with Manchester United over a possible move to Old Trafford.
He has told West Ham he wants to leave and could join United by the weekend in a deal worth a reported €5.6 million.
United have refused to be drawn on the reports linking them with the striker. A spokesman said: "We do not comment on transfer speculation".
However, sources in London claim di Canio's representatives have already spoken to United. It is understood that although no deal has yet been done, agreement could be reached in the next few days.
Alex Ferguson is known to be a big admirer of the 33-year-old and has been tracking him for some time.
Di Canio has the added allure that he would be eligible to play in the Champions League and would bring United's quota of strikers back up to four following Andy Cole's £7.5 million sterling move to Blackburn.
Independiente striker Diego Forlan is unlikely to be joining United, however.
United's scouts had watched the Uruguayan international several times, but the Reds are not expected to follow up their interest.
PA