West Ham United keen to land Sylvain Distin on free contract?

Everton centre-back Sylvain Distin is reportedly a deadline day target for West Ham United manager Sam Allardyce.

The Hammers are said to be in the market for a defender before tonight's 11pm cut-off point, and the Daily Mail claims that the Frenchman will be allowed to join on a free transfer.

It is suggested that a short-term deal until the end of the season is likely to go through, although Distin, who has previously played for Newcastle United, Manchester City and Portsmouth, may push for an 18-month contract at Upton Park.

West Ham currently have three central defenders on their books, while youngster Reece Oxford is on the periphery.