Transfer news: West Ham plot January move for Southampton striker Rickie Lambert

Hammers boss in desperate need of goals as he looks to save season

Rickie Lambert of Southampton in action during the Barclays Premier League match between Norwich City and Southampton (Getty Images)

West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is said to be plotting a move for Southampton and England forward Rickie Lambert as he looks to improve his side's fortunes this season.

The Hammers boss reportedly made enquiries about the World Cup hopeful in the summer but saw his advances rejected.

However with Lambert slipping down the pecking order at St Mary's, following the arrival of record signing Dani Osvaldo, Allardyce has renewed his interest.

West Ham's troubles up front this season, following injury to Andy Carroll, have been well documented - with only bottom of the table Sunderland having scored less goals in the Premier League.

With Lambert looking to cement his place in England's World Cup squad and West Ham in desperate need of goals as they look to turn their season around, Allardyce clearly feels a move would be mutually beneficial.

The Southampton forward has four goals so far this season and is under contract at the club until 2016.