Eddie Howe lined up for West Ham United job?

Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe is reportedly in contention to replace Sam Allardyce as West Ham United manager this summer.

Howe has guided the Cherries to third place in the Championship, two points off an automatic promotion place.

However, the ex-Burnley coach has become a highly regarded candidate for the Hammers hotseat, with Allardyce's future at Upton Park yet to be decided, according to The Mirror.

Allardyce is out of contract with the Irons at the end of season, but the club's hierarchy have yet to open negotiations over a new deal, leading to speculation that the former Bolton Wanderers supremo will leave after the current campaign.

It is thought that Allardyce is wanted by Sunderland as a long-term replacement for Gus Poyet, who was sacked by the Black Cats last week following a 4-0 home defeat against Aston Villa.

David Moyes is still said to be the preferred option of the West Ham board, but the Scot is reportedly keen to remain with Real Sociedad next season, assuming he is given backing in the transfer market.