West Ham are tracking Hartlepool striker Connor Simpson.

The Sun says the Irons are trying to sign the 'new Andy Carroll'.

The 17-year-old striker, who scored on his first senior start last month, has drawn comparisons to Carroll because he is 6ft 5in and left-footed.

And it is Carroll's current club who are leading West Brom and Swansea in the race to strike a January deal.

The Hammers hope to nab Simpson, who is yet to sign a professional contract, for just £60,000.

But that fee would rise substantially if he made it into their first team.