West Ham United target out-of-contract Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick

West Ham United are reportedly keen to re-sign Michael Carrick. The 34-year-old midfielder is involved in a contract dispute with current club Manchester United and the Hammers – with whom he started his career – are keen to take advantage of the situation.

United are yet to offer fresh terms to the player, who signed for United from Tottenham Hotspur in 2006. West Ham, meanwhile, believe the England international could be lured back to East London with the offer of a one-year contract, according to The Sun.

Alex Song is set to leave West Ham at the end of the current campaign and manager Slaven Bilic is hopeful of filling the void in his squad with United's stalwart. Bilic's need for new signings will be increased if the Hammers qualify for the Europa League next season and Carrick's extensive experience of European football with United would be seen as a significant pro.

What's more, it is thought the United star's know-how could help accelerate the development of 17-year-old midfielder Reece Oxford. West Ham would not need to pay a fee for the player, either, as he is out of contract in the summer.

Carrick has also reportedly attracted the interest of teams in America's Major League Soccer, but a move to London would allow his wife Lisa to be closer to her family.