West Ham United make Rickie Lambert approach?

West Ham United have reportedly launched a bid to sign Rickie Lambert from Southampton following news that Nicola Cortese has left his role as chairman of the South Coast club.

The Saints confirmed the departure of the Italian banker earlier this evening, with owner Katharina Liebherr installing herself as his temporary replacement.

According to the Daily Mail, the Hammers are looking to take advantage of the boardroom upheaval at St Mary's by lodging a bid for the England international, who has scored six goals in 21 appearances this season.

Manager Sam Allardyce is known to be searching for another striker to compete with Andy Carroll, Carlton Cole and Modibo Maiga.