Hammers watch Dutch defender

Vitesse Arnhem defender Ruud Knol is flattered to be wanted by other clubs, after West Ham United watched him in action.

Knol is out of contract at the end of the season and broke off talks regarding an extension with his Dutch club last month.

He has been linked with Anderlecht and Genclerbirligi, while he is thought to have turned down the chance to undergo a trial at Stoke City.

On Sunday, West Ham scouts took in Vitesse's 3-2 win over Groningen in the Eredivisie, in which Knol played for 90 minutes.

The stopper is aware of the interest, but is waiting for a firm offer before discussing where his future lies.

"At the moment a club contacts Vitesse, you will move on to the next phase," Knol told De Gelderlander.

"It's good clubs are looking at me, but things will start to be interesting when they are put on paper."

Vitesse are hoping to sell Knol before the close of the transfer window in order to raise funds, rather than lose the defender for nothing in the summer.