Hammers fury at Yossi approach

West Ham United chiefs are fuming after Yossi Benayoun confirmed that he will consider an £8.5 million five-year deal offered by Hapoel Tel Aviv following an illegal approach to sign him.

The Israeli midfielder has been a key component in Hammers boss Alan Pardew's side this season, and the news that he has been 'tapped up' has been met with unbridled fury at Upton Park.

West Ham managing director Paul Aldridge told the News of the World: "The Fifa rules are clear in respect of speaking with players registered to other clubs.

"We expect these rules to be adhered to and will act if an illegal approach has been made.

"There are a number of options available to us and we would need to consider the most appropriate."

Benayoun also confessed that another Israeli side had contacted him about the possibility of a move, saying: "There were talks recently with Hapoel Tel Aviv and Beitar Jerusalem and when the offer is seriously put to the club rather than just me, I will think."