New battle for West Ham's Kanoute

West Ham managing director Paul Aldridge today denied there is an escape clause in striker Frederic Kanoute's contract which will allow him to leave at the end of the season.

Kanoute has been quoted in a French magazine about interest in him from a number of clubs who are alleged to include Manchester United, Liverpool and Juventus.

"Each offer I receive will get my attention because now I feel ready. My ambition has changed," he is quoted as saying.

There has been speculation that a clause in 23-year-old Kanoute's contract would allow him to move on if he chose but today Aldridge confirmed: "That clause was removed earlier this season.

"We have had no offers for Freddie and we would not welcome any. He is a vital part of our squad and Harry Redknapp is hoping to bring someone in to play alongside Freddie, rather than instead of him." Kanoute's agent Pape Diouf also said today: "Nothing has been decided. For the moment he is staying at West Ham."

Kanoute, who is suffering from a back injury, was the subject of interest from Chelsea earlier in the season but decided to stay at Upton Park.

"Chelsea came mid-season to negotiate," said Kanoute in the article. "They made me a very attractive offer but I refused it in the end because it was too early to leave."

West Ham signed Kanoute from Lyon for £3.75 million last May and could now sell the 6ft 3ins striker for at least a £6m profit.

The Upton Park club, who still need a win to be assured of Premiership safety, are, however, reluctant to part with another one of their star names following the £18m transfer of Rio Ferdinand to Leeds earlier this season.