West Ham United have reportedly told Carlton Cole that he can leave the club and believe that the striker's future lies elsewhere.

Cole has led the line for the Hammers for much of this season, with loan signing Andy Carroll struggling with a succession of injuries.

Carroll's return, coupled with the signings of Marouane Chamakh and Wellington Paulista, have left Cole surplus to requirements, according to The Mirror.

The 29-year-old has just two Premier League goals this season but is thought to be attracting attention from Reading and Norwich City, who are monitoring his situation.

Cole has been at Upton Park since 2006 and helped guide the Hammers back into the Premier League last season.