West Ham United 'leading Daniel Sturridge race'

West Ham United have reportedly emerged as frontrunners to sign Daniel Sturridge from Liverpool in January.

Sturridge has fallen down the pecking order at Anfield this season, with the form of Roberto Firmino, Philippe Coutinho and Sadio Mane limiting the England international to just four Premier League starts.

The likes of AC Milan, Tottenham Hotspur and Stoke City have all been linked with a move for the 27-year-old, but The Express reports that West Ham are currently in pole position.

The Hammers' summer search for a high-profile striker saw them bring Simone Zaza to the club on loan from Juventus, but the Italy international has failed to impress so far and has been tipped for a January switch to Valencia.

Having previously failed with a bid for AC Milan's Carlos Bacca, manager Slaven Bilic will now reportedly turn his attention to Sturridge, who could be available for £25m.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is thought to be open to the idea of selling Sturridge in order to make room for his own signings when the transfer window reopens.

Sturridge is yet to score in the Premier League this season.