Intermarket set out ten-year plan for West Ham

Intermarket have announced they will stay at West Ham for at least 10 years if they are allowed to take over the struggling Premier League club.

The American-based finance company are confident of taking over the Hammers and owner David Byrne was keen to sound out their credentials.

"I believe we're offering the best package as well as guaranteed funds for this transfer window," said Byrne.

"We are the only party prepared to sign a 10-year commitment to stay at the club.

"We will do all we can to take West Ham into a prosperous future off the pitch and a successful one on it."

The consortium was hit by the sad news that CEO Jim Bowe had passed away in North Carolina but Byrne is adamant his death won't affect their takeover bid.

Jim had been my friend for two decades," said Byrne.

"We worked on deals together and it had always been my ambition to work with him in the same company.

"We had many plans for the future. West Ham was the first of them. His death is a terrible blow, but he would have wanted us to carry on and give it our all.

"If we win this race (to buy West Ham), it will all be because of, and for, Jim."

Their success is by no means assured and they face tough competition from Malaysian businessman Tony Fernandes as well as former Birmingham City owners David Gold and David Sullivan.

It has been suggested that Intermarket are struggling to come up with the required funds.

Fernandes reportedly flew into London yesterday (Wednesday) in the hope of concluding a deal, while Gold and Sullivan are unlikely to give up without a fight and have reportedly made an improved offer.

Current owners Straumur have consistently stated they are in no hurry to sell the club, but with debts estimated at around �38m it is likely a sale will go through sooner rather than later.