DAUM LOOKING TO INCREASE STRIKING OPTIONS

The Iranian international is believed to be on his way out of Hertha as he is not happy with being relegated to the bench, something Daum is willing to act upon.

Speaking on his official website, Daum said: "Ali Daei (pictured) of Hertha is a candidate.  He is already 32-years-old so a transfer is difficult, as there is hardly the possibility to re-finance the transfer fee.

"The transfer fee and Daei's salary are not realisable so far.  Now we try to find a solution that is satisfactory to all parties."

Hertha is expected to demand a £1.5 million fee for Daei, as they need money to help swell the coffers having splashed out on Brazilian Marcelinho and Belgian Bart Goor .

Daum is also rumoured to be looking at Hamburg SV striker Marinus Bester, rated in the £300,000 bracket.

Daum said: "I don't want to exclude the possibility that someone has talked with him to collect a provision.  That was not a serious procedure."