Soccer: King Kanoute ready to leave Upton Park

West Ham striker Frederic Kanoute could spark a £10m-plus summer transfer scramble after revealing he is now ready to consider offers to leave Upton Park.

But while the Frenchman insists Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus are all interested, the Hammers maintain the striker is not for sale and they would resist any moves to buy him.

Kanoute, who was a target for Chelsea and Rangers earlier this season as he quickly made his mark in England, has given hints of frustration in the past only to later deny his comments.

However, this time he would appear to have left rather less room for doubt according to reports today.

Kanoute said: "Chelsea came to see me mid-season to negotiate. They made me a very attractive offer and it was rather interesting for West Ham.

"But I refused in the end because it was too early to leave. I preferred to stay and at least see the season out.

"Now the season is practically over it’s clear that my way of thinking is going to be radically different. Each offer I receive will get all my attention because now I feel ready. My ambitions have changed.

"I don’t see why I would leave this championship though. I love this style of play. Anyway, I have no desire to return to France."