West Ham are poised to move for Rafael Benitez if Slaven Bilic loses his job this summer, the Daily Mirror say.
Newcastle boss Benitez is on course to take the Magpies back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
However, it is claimed that his future at St James’ Park is uncertain and that he could take over at the London Stadium if the Hammers decide to part with Bilic.
Meanwhile, Aaron Cresswell has insisted that West Ham’s players remain fully behind manager Bilic.
Three defeats in a row – and no win in five matches – has triggered more speculation about Bilic’s future, with Reading boss Jaap Stam also touted as a possible replacement for the Croatian this week.
But Hammers wide-man Cresswell says Bilic has plenty of support among the squad.
Cresswell told Sky Sports: “If you ask any of the players they’ll say the same: we’re fully behind him and fully supportive of him. Hopefully we can turn it around and take the pressure of everyone.
“He’s positive and passionate about his job. He’s bubbly around the place and wants to stay in a positive mood.
“As players that’s what we want. There’s no point being negative about the defeats we’ve had.”
Bilic’s side, 12th in the Premier League table, will have the chance to get back to winning ways when they travel to face relegation-threatened Hull City this weekend.
“Certainly all the lads here, the coaching staff and the manager, are all giving 110%,” Cresswell said.
“Of course it’s not going right at the moment. We’re looking to put that right on Saturday.
“We know we haven’t been good enough, especially of late.”