HAMMERS AGREE ITALIAN MOVE

The new Hammers boss has admitted he needs to draft in reinforcements to his injury-hit squad and the Fiorentina defender is set to plug one of the gaps, providing he agrees personal terms.

A deal has been struck after La Viola revealed they were prepared to let the 28-year-old leave, as his stormy relationship with coach Roberto Mancini has necessitated a move away from Florence.

The fee will reportedly be paid over two years after the East Londoners fended off competition from Chelsea and Milan.

Pierini confessed some time ago he was keen to follow Fatih Terim to Milan, while Claudio Ranieri is believed to be an admirer of his talents, although the Stamford Bridge boss has had other priorities within his squad.

The former Udinese centre back was under contract until 2003 but has been keen for a fresh challenge.

Fiorentina have confirmed the transfer on their official website, declaring: "Pierini has been sold to West Ham for 14 billion lira.

"He is currently in London in order to undertake the medical tests and complete the details of the transfer."

Roeder will still be in the market for new blood, even if Pierini does put pen-to-paper on the four-year contract awaiting him at Upton Park, but the signing may affect Hannu Tihinen's hopes of earning a move from Viking Stavanger.

Furthermore, Aliou Cisse's prospects of earning a contract under Roeder were not enhanced during the disappointing 2-1 friendly defeat to Notts County on Friday evening.

The Paris Saint Germain defender played in midfield and was partially at fault with one of the goals.