Just came up 2 minutes ago on skysports....

12.10 Stoke City are in talks with West Ham over a deal for striker Dean Ashton. Interesting one this one; the guy's clearly a class act when fit but getting him on the pitch has been a problem over the past couple of years. We'll bring you more news as and when it comes in.

Dont reckon Stoke will go for it Dave we are asking at least 10 mil for him and the most Stoke have paid for a player is 5 mil (Dave Kitson).Would be a shame a great player WHEN FIT,just not fit for long enough was really a bit of a waste of 7.5 mil in the end,if we can get 10 mil then it is a good bit of buisness IMO.In saying that though if he was to stay i wouldnt be disappointed,as he knows where the back of the net is.

I agree,

10 million we should take and cut our losses, its a great shame but if we are to progress we need our number 9 fit and playing.
Although I read somewhere that Deano is as fit as he's been in years, he's lost weight and the ankle is nearly right.
So if we can't get 10+ for him, give him till january then make a decision IMO.

So Stoke are after Ashton and Owen? If they keep both fit they'll be top half, if they both get injured they'll sink like a stone.

I read somewhere that the chaiman of Stoke reckons it's all bollocks and they''ve made no approach at all?

Anyway, I'd be gutted to see him leave. The investment we've put into his rehabilitation is staggering and we all know a fit Ashton means success for West Ham.

But can he stay fit? Fuck knows? What I do know is that if our medical staff can't get him right then I suspect no-one can. I reckon Ashtons future, with us anyway, is in thier hands. Fuck I hope they can get in on the pitch mind, he'd be a fucken monster.

I also read that Stokes chairman said its all bullshit. As far as i'm concerned, he should take a pay cut and continue playing for us. Hes spent two seasons on the sidelines earning ridiculous amounts while he's recovered from injury. In any case, I want him to stay. I'm dreaming of a Cole/Ashton/Jiminez strike force

Tricky one this - So little return from our investment, but looks the business when on the pitch. I reckon hang on to him. Top drawer striker (best Brit born anyway). Agree with Beggers re our medicos abilities & maybe if we do unload him, it would be on their advice that he is suss fitness wise. Bottom line is that he is worth plenty more that 10 mill if fit. Persevere with him methinks. My only concern is that ststement where he is the fittest he has ever been - I think that was the statement last time - Nervous times ahead.
Have this recurring nightmare that he scores a series of vital goals AGAINST us - don't want that to happen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I read somewhere that if it goes ahead it will be a loan deal.

Not a bad option really. Let him find form and fitness with them then bring him back if he fires.

Don't want to see him leave as he is a class striker.

Scott Duxbury says it's all bollocks and even if it were true 10mill is too cheap.