Job - confirmation

The agent for Joseph-Desire Job has confirmed that his client will not be joining West Ham.

Barry Silkman, speaking this lunch time told reporters:

"The talks broke down over length of contract."

KUMB reported on Saturday afternoon that Alan Pardew had spurned the chance to take the out of favour 'Boro striker. However several media sources continued to carry stories claiming that the deal was still on.

Meanwhile Pardew is being linked with a move for Real Madrid's young striker Portillo.

The 22-year-old was first linked with the Hammers at the start of the 02/03 season when Glenn Roeder failed in an audacious bid to sign the striker on loan.

Now well down the pecking order at Real, the striker is looking for opportunities elsewhere.