West Ham boss Alan Curbishley had told Reo-Coker he would listen to offers for the Hammers captain, who has responded by making it clear he will not stay if he isn't wanted.

Curbishley wants eight million pounds for the England under-21 international, who was a member of the reserve World Cup squad last year, and is likely to get offers from Tottenham, Arsenal, Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Reo-Coker's agent Tony Finnigan said: "I can confirm that Nigel Reo-Coker has officially handed in a transfer request.

"I am surprised that a Londoner who is captain of his club is being allowed to leave.

"At the end of the day he never felt wanted but I am sure he will have a bright future elsewhere."