WEST HAM have made a shock bid for Southampton centre-back Jose Fonte.

Slaven Bilic has targeted the Portugal international, 33, to bolster his defence for the second half of the season.

4 Jose Fonte has been left out of Saints' league cup semi final against Liverpool tonight Credit: Getty Images

The Hammers join Crystal Palace and Everton in the race for the defender, who has made it clear he wants to leave St Mary's this month.

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Sam Allardyce is hoping to take advantage of Fonte's situation to strengthen his back line.

And Goodison boss Ronald Koeman has a good relationship with the veteran after working together at Southampton.

4 Slaven Bilicis in need of defensive reinforcements this month at West Ham Credit: Reuters

But Bilic is now firmly in the race for one of January's hottest properties as he looks to arrest the club's slide. The Hammers have lost their last three games and have already conceded 35 league goals.

Hammers officials have been in touch with Southampton and lodged a bid of around £4million to see if Saints are willing to sell.

4 Southampton captain won Euro 2016 with Portugal and was close to joining Manchester United last summer Credit: PA:Press Association

4 Claude Puel will not be selecting Jose Fonte while his future is uncertain Credit: Reuters

Boss Claude Puel has confirmed that Fonte will not be part of his squad to face Liverpool in the EFL Cup semi-final after leaving the defender out of the squad that drew with Norwich in the FA Cup on Saturday.

The Portuguese defender who played a major part in his country becoming European champions last summer was also linked with a move to Manchester United after Euro 2016.