Alex Song's proposed move to West Ham United from Barcelona has been delayed due to an ankle problem, according to reports.
The midfielder spent last season on loan at the Hammers and recent reports had suggested that new manager Slaven Bilic had given the club the green light to sign him to a permanent deal.
However, The Mirror claims that Song has been told that he will need surgery to remove a bone fragment in his ankle, which has caused concern for West Ham officials.
The report suggests that West Ham have proposed to cancel the permanent move in favour of a second season-long loan for the 27-year-old, who is likely to miss the start of the season.
Song made 31 appearances in all competitions last season.
