West Ham close in on Zarate West Ham close in on Zarate

The 27-year-old was in prolific form for Buenos Aires-based Velez Sarsfield, finishing the season as the Primera Divison's top scorer with 13 goals, four more than closest rival Guido Carillo of Estudiantes.

And the former Lazio and Inter Milan forward revealed he is excited about following in the footsteps of compatriots Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano ahead of his imminent move to West Ham.

"Yes," Zarate told Sky Sports News when asked if he had agreed terms on a three-year contract with West Ham.

"It's a new chance for me. West Ham called me. They are a fierce team and now I think I want to play (there)."

When asked if he had spoken to Tevez and Mascherano ahead of his proposed move, he added: "Yes a little bit. Now we will talk (with West Ham's owners) and maybe I will sign."

Zarate scored four goals in 14 appearances during his last stint in England - a loan move to Birmingham from Qatari side Al Sadd.

Current West Ham co-owners David Gold and David Sullivan were in charge at St Andrew's during Zarate's spell with Birmingham.

A source told Sky Sports: "Mauro is very excited about a move to England.

"He enjoyed his spell last time with Birmingham and is ready to play in the Premier League again."