The January transfer window is still a couple of months away, but Avram Grant is already looking to strengthen up front.

WEST HAM boss Avram Grant is already looking to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window as the Hammers struggle at the bottom of the Premier League table.

And goals seem to be his top priority after the club were linked with Barcelona youngster Bojan Krkic and Hapoel Tel Aviv marksman Etey Schechter this week.

West Ham have scored just seven goals in nine league games this season and it was their inability to capitalise on their dominance against Newcastle United on Saturday that was to cost them the points.

Grant has confirmed his interest in Israel international Schechter, 22, who grabbed 22 goals in 34 games last season and has played for his club in the Champions League.

West Ham have also been linked with 20-year-old Krkic, a Spaniard who finished the last campaign with seven goals in 12 games.

He is still down the pecking order at the Nou Camp and a loan move could be a possibility in January, though the Hammers may have to fight it out with Juventus and Chelsea for his signature – a tough ask.

West Ham co-owner David Gold told the Recorder at the beginning of the season that if things were not going well at the turn of the year, then funds would be made available, but the Hammers heirarchy will be hoping for some improvement before then.

A trip to Arsenal may not give them the boost they are looking for with skipper Matty Upson and striker Freddie Piquionne both fighting to be fit for the trip to the Emirates.

Both limped out of the defeat against Newcastle with the Frenchman the more likely to miss out.

Grant has recalled youngster Frank Nouble from his loan spell at Swansea City, but against the Gunners the manager will likely opt for either a 4-5-1 system with Carlton Cole at the head of things, or he will pair Cole with Victor Obinna.

Kieron Dyer is also hoping to feature after missing the Newcastle game with a thigh injury.