Transfer news: Crystal Palace and QPR line up Carlton Cole after West Ham United deal ends - reports

Former England striker looks set to stay in the capital

Carlton Cole of West Ham United (Getty Images)

West Ham striker Carlton Cole is set to decide on his future in the next 48 hours according to reports.

The 30-year-old is now a free agent after his short-term deal at the London club expired yesterday and QPR's Harry Redknapp is said to be keen to add him to his squad.

According to reports, Tony Pulis is also keen on taking the striker to Crystal Palace and should Cole decide to move then West Ham could find themselves in a spot of bother.

Currently Andy Carroll is not fit enough to play a full 90 minutes and they only have Modibo Maiga as back up.

However the East London side should discover today whether their bid to secure a work permit for Lacina Traore has been successful.

The decision on the 6ft 8in Monaco striker's permit was delayed after a hearing yesterday at which Sam Allardyce made a personal appearance.

The West Ham boss is keen to retain the services of Cole as he tries to manage his meagre striking resources.

Allardyce told the West Ham website: "We've got that in mind and are talking about that as quickly as we possibly can because obviously it needs to be addressed. Carlton will be dealt with very shortly."

However so far the club have reportedly failed to agree terms with the striker.