Hammers target Carroll

Manchester United reject Roy Carroll has emerged as a top target for West Ham - but Standard Sport understands the club have also made a bid to bring French star Fabien Barthez to Upton Park.

West Ham manager Alan Pardew has made enquiries about both goalkeepers as he begins to strengthen his squad for the Premiership.

With Jimmy Walker out for at least six months after tearing knee ligaments in the play-off final in Cardiff, Pardew's priority is an experienced keeper for next season.

Northern Ireland international Carroll is surplus to requirements at Old Trafford and would be Pardew's first choice as he would be available on a free transfer. But Pardew has also held preliminary talks with Barthez, who is out of contract at Marseille.

Barthez is banned in France until 31 December for spitting at a referee during a friendly match in Morocco last season.

The suspension would not apply in England, however, and 34-year-old Barthez would apparently be free to play in the Premiership.