West Ham boss Gianfranco Zola has revealed that he is keen to sign Inter Milan forward Mario Balotelli.

The 19-year-old hitman is a reported target for a number of other Premier League clubs, as we told you here on ExtraFootie recently.

Now it seems that The Hammers are ready to launch an audacious bid to bring him to Upton Park, as Zola continues in his quest to reinforce in East London.

He has seen his side start the season poorly, and they currently hover just above the relegation zone in 17th place in the table.

With the rumoured departures of the (currently sidelined) Carlton Cole, and Matthew Upson set for January, the dimunitive Italian knows that he must move fast to replace one or both, and sees Balotelli, who is just 19-years-old, as the perfect addition to his squad.

Zola also revealed that they had made enquiries about the Palermo born starlet last summer.

"If Inter want to talk about him in January we are ready," he told Corriere dello Sport.

"Mario has extraordinary potential, but he must understand that he has to improve, showing the right attitude.

"Last summer there was a time when we asked about him. In January, we will see what intention they have. Sure if he does leave Milan, we would not be the only ones who want him."