West Ham have had "exploratory discussions" about a possible takeover of the club but insist talks are at an early stage.

Kia Joorabchian's company, Media Sport Investment, have been linked with a takeover of the Hammers.

Joorabchian made an investment in Corinthians in December 2004, with Argentinian duo Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano leaving the Sao Paulo side and arriving at Upton Park from the Brazilian club yesterday.

A statement to the Stock Exchange from West Ham read: "The board confirms that it has had exploratory discussions in relation to a possible bid but these discussions are at a very early stage and there can be no certainty that an offer for West Ham will be forthcoming.

"The board also confirms that there is no contractual link between the signing of the players (Tevez and Mascherano) and the bid discussions."  PA