Sky Sports News understands Tottenham
Hotspur are in talks with West Ham United over a deal for Craig
Bellamy.
The financial uncertainty at Upton Park has led to speculation
that Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola may be forced into selling his
best players.
Zola outlined his determination to keep his leading figures
earlier this week and admitted he would be 'very annoyed' if he did
lose any members of his squad.
Bellamy has also spoken of his happiness at West Ham recently
after he was linked with a return to Celtic where he previously
spent a spell on loan.
However, he admitted he was unsure if the Hammers would accept
any bids, and Sky Sports News understands that Spurs are
now trying to test their London rivals' resolve.
Negotiations between the two clubs are understood to have
started, with West Ham keen to recoup almost double the £7.5million
they paid for Bellamy 18 months ago.
Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has admitted he is hoping to improve
his squad in the New Year, but insists he will not pay 'crazy
prices' for new players.
Redknapp is short of attacking options at White Hart Lane, with
Darren Bent, Roman Pavlyuchenko and the on-loan Fraizer Campbell
the only recognised strikers available.
Bellamy has returned to fitness with West Ham this season and
has scored twice in the Premier League, including in the recent 1-1
draw at title-chasing Chelsea.
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