West Ham United are in talks with former Newcastle United and Queens Park Rangers midfielder Joey Barton, sources have told ESPN FC.
Barton is a free agent after being released by QPR at the end of last season following their relegation from the Premier League.
The 32-year-old made 13 Premier League appearances for QPR last season, but left following the expiration of his contract.
West Ham are in the market for a defensive midfielder with long-term target Alex Song expected to be out of action until November through injury.
Song enjoyed a successful spell on loan at West Ham last season from Barcelona, but his injury has forced West Ham to look at other options.
Youngster Reece Oxford was thrust into a defensive midfield role in Sunday's 2-0 win over Arsenal on Sunday and impressed in his Premier League debut, but West Ham are keen to bring in some midfield cover.
Barton has held talks with West Ham boss Slaven Bilic and the discussions have gone well between the pair.
The former Manchester City man is expected to undergo a medical at West Ham on Tuesday ahead of the proposed move to Upton Park.
Should Barton move to West Ham he would link up again with former Newcastle teammates Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan.