Hammers unlikely to sign duo

WEST HAM target Demba Ba has decided to go on strike at current club Hoffenheim.

The Senegalese striker has refused to join his team-mates in Malaga for winter training after the German club seemed reluctant to let him talk to clubs in England.

Hoffenheim Managing Director Ernst Tanner demanded the player, who is contracted until 2013 join the rest of the squad, but Ba refused.

“Yes, it’s true he has refused to go to La Manga, even though we demanded he catch a flight and join up with his team-mates,” Tanner said.

“I have told him he will have to face the consequences.

“It could be a fine or we could throw him out altogether and make him see out his contract without playing.”

Ba joined the club in 2007 after a spell in France and has scored 37 goals in 97 appearances.

The 25-year-old had a brief spell at Watford without making an appearance and his lawyer Ran Ronen confirmed the Hammers had submitted a bid thought to be around �6million.

“It does seem he could move and Demba would like to join a Premier League outfit, this is no secret,” he said.”

“Joining West Ham? This is something I would put in doubt.

“I cannot say anything concrete, West Ham did come up with a bid, but at the moment Hoffenheim don’t appear to be working on it.”

One player who is allowed to talk to other clubs is David Beckham.

The much sought after England international has been linked with a move back to the Premier League and although it seems Spurs are the favourites, the Hammers are seemingly interested in his services.

“There are other teams who want him, he’s a big player and a big personality,” boss Avram Grant said.

“But if David Beckham wants to come to West Ham he is welcome.

“I like him as a player and as a person, and he’s a local lad.

“Many clubs want him but if he wants to come to West Ham I would be happy.”