Japan striker Ryoichi Maeda is training with Championship West Ham with a view to a full time deal, according to the local media. Hammers boss Sam Allardyce has promised the Jubilo Iwata forward an answer by the start of next week.

"He's a player with a proven track record," Allardyce was quoted as saying in Japan's Nikkan Sports.

"I have to decide if he can play a part in the team quickly."

West Ham are believed to have offered the 30 year old a two-year contract worth $1.9 million a year, more than double his current wages, subject to a medical and obtaining a work visa.

"It might be a bit late to be taking on the challenge of playing abroad," Maeda said. "But I hope to grow into a better player in Europe and bring that to the national team.

"At my age, this is likely my last chance to play overseas and I want to everything possible to make it happen."

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