West Ham United reject Modibo Maiga bid from Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne have reportedly had an official approach for Mali international Modibo Maiga rejected by West Ham United.

Maiga has been consistently linked with a move to Ligue 1 during the summer, with Marseille also rumoured to be monitoring his progress.

Despite persistent exit talk Maiga started for the Hammers in last week's 2-0 win over Cardiff City, with Sam Allardyce's side short in attack while Andy Carroll recovers from injury

ASSE wanted Maiga on a season-long loan move but were knocked back swiftly by West Ham, who want reinforcements before considering selling any first-team regulars, according to the Daily Mail.

Christophe Galtier may now turn his attention to former Hammers forward Carlton Cole in a bid to provide Brandao with competition in attack, following preliminary talks with the free agent that broke down last month.