Sam Allardyce confirms Johnny Heitinga deal

West Ham United boss Sam Allardyce has confirmed that the club are close to finalising a deal with Everton to sign defender Johnny Heitinga.

The Netherlands international, whose deal at Goodison Park expires in the summer, has fallen out of favour at the Toffees under Roberto Martinez, prompting speculation that the former Ajax centre-half could use the January transfer window as an opportunity to seek pastures new.

Upton Park has been touted as a potential destination in recent days, and Allardyce confirms that a deal has been thrashed out between the parties.

He told reporters ahead his team's trip to Fulham today: "We've had the okay from Everton and we're talking to his agent so hopefully that will happen in the next day or so."

The 30-year-old, who has not made a single Premier League appearance all season, moved to Merseyside in 2009.