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Boro ace eyed by Hammers
West Ham United, 09:40, May 26, 2009 ,
West Ham are lining up a summer bid for Middlesbrough defender Matthew Bates following the Teessiders' relegation.
Hammers boss Gianfranco Zola is a fan of the 22-year-old and he has been tipped to make move for him with Bates now thought to be keen on a move after Boro dropped down into the Championship.
Their boss Gareth Southgate has admitted he is expecting several of his top players to now leave and is not expected to stand in anyone's way, should they request a move.
Bates was one of Boro's best performers in a disappointing season and has been linked with a move to Upton Park as well as catching the eye of the likes of Fulham, Blackburn and recently-promoted Birmingham.
He is expected to cost at least £4million although that price could rise if a bidding war develops over the summer.