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Grant bags West Ham job

Avram Grant did a fine job under pressing circumstances at Portsmouth © Getty Images

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Avram Grant is the new manager of West Ham United - subject to the formalities of a work permit.

West Ham insiders have confirmed to Soccernet that Grant has been appointed as the successor to Gianfranco Zola, who was sacked two weeks ago.

Soccernet understands that Grant held a private meeting with the Hammers' board on Thursday to cement his three year, £3 million contract. The official announcement is being delayed purely due to the wait for a new work permit to be issued for the job at Upton Park.

A West Ham insider confirmed to Soccernet: "Avram Grant will be appointed manager subject to the club gaining his work permit, which takes time, but should be a formality."

Grant was wanted by half a dozen clubs in Europe, but has chosen West Ham and an instant return to the Premier League after relegation with FA Cup finalists Portsmouth.

Grant quickly rose to take the position despite candidates such as Mark Hughes, Slaven Bilic and Steve McClaren being in the frame.

David Sullivan and David Gold were attracted to Grant by his heroics at Fratton Park with penniless Pompey. West Ham, too, are working on a tight financial restraints, and Sullivan revealed recently that the club were days away from administration before they took over with a £50 million, 50% takeover at the turn of the year.

This week Sullivan and Gold bought a further stake for £8 million, £4 million going into the club to meet pressing liabilities and for down payments on new signings. Grant's first task is to sort through a list of nearly 30 players who are available for transfer and who would welcome a move to Upton Park.

Sullivan and Gold are making preliminary enquires about several on the list, and initial offers have been lodged.

West Ham had an opening bid for Yakubu turned down on Wednesday and on Thursday morning made an offer for Frederic Piquionne.

West Ham believe that the work permit is a "formality" but cannot unveil Grant as their new manager until it arrives, and it is expected on Tuesday or Wednesday.

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