Queens Park Rangers boss Harry Redknapp has admitted that a deal for Carlton Cole looks unlikely, with the striker ready to re-join West Ham United.

Cole is currently available as a free agent after reaching the end of a previous deal at West Ham United.

Redknapp is keen to bring in a striker at Loftus Road and has identified Cole as a target, but the 29-year-old has returned to train with the Hammers in a bid to earn a new contract at the club.

"We want a striker, but clubs won't let them out on loan. We need help up front, that's for sure," Redknapp told reporters. "Charlie's (Austin) doing a good job but he needs some help.

"He can't keep doing it in every game, we need to take the pressure off him. Carlton's a great player, but I think he's going to sign for West Ham."

Cole has made 237 appearances for West Ham, scoring 59 goals in the process.