Juventus youngster Sebastian Giovinco is a January target for West Ham, according to the player's agent

JUVENTUS youngster Sebastian Giovinco is a January target for West Ham, according to the player's agent.

Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is lining up a loan move for the 20-year-old forward, who is rated as one of the top prospects in Italy.

Giovinco has struggled to break into the Juventus first team under former Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri this season and his agent Claudio Pasqualini has confirmed West Ham's interest in taking the promising hitman on loan.

He said: "There is interest abroad, he has many admirers. Gianfranco Zola has always admired him and has said he would like him."

Zola coached Giovinco as part of the Italy Under-21 side before moving to Upton Park in September and believes the Juventus prospect could boost the club's attacking options.

"He's a player I know very well," Zola said. "He's played for me for the Under-21s

and he's a player I admire. He's one of those players who can change a game."

The Italian admitted that Juventus, who are currently six points behind Serie A leaders Inter Milan, are unlikely to sanction a permanent move for Giovinco, who signed a new long-term contract with the Turin club last year.

But the youngster could be allowed to join the Hammers in January on a six-month loan deal.

"Any move would have to be decided by Juve in January," said Pasqualini.