Birmingham City have had a £3million bid for striker Marlon Harewood rejected by West Ham United. City made an offer of an initial £2million plus add-ons for Harewood, who is surplus to requirements at Upton Park.

But the Hammers are looking for something near £5million for the former Nottingham Forest player.

Alan Curbishley, the West Ham manager, is looking to recoup the majority of the £6million he paid Birmingham for defender Matthew Upson in January.

But Birmingham, who are also interested in defender Paul Konchesky, consider that figure to be unrealistic.

Harewood played a major role in the Hammers regaining their Barclays Premier League status two years ago when he scored 16 goals.

But he has gradually slipped down the pecking order and last season netted only four goals.

Steve Bruce, the Birmngham manager, has been given the green light to continue with his transfer plans despite the current uncertainty surrounding the future of the club.

He has already signed Middlesbrough defender Stuart Parnaby and agreed a permanent deal for Arsenal midfielder Fabrice Muamba, who spent last season on loan at St Andrews.

Hong Kong businessman Carson Yeung is expected to step up his bid to buy Birmingham during the next few days.

The billionaire, who was unsuccessful in his attempt to take control of Reading, has already had his representatives visit St Andrews and inspect the club's