West Ham want to sign Bournemouth midfielder Harry Arter during the January transfer window, Sky sources understand.
Hammers boss David Moyes wants to sign a central midfielder next month and is also interested in Steven N'Zonzi of Sevilla and Sporting Lisbon's William Carvalho.
Carvalho came close to joining West Ham last summer but the clubs could not agree a fee.
Republic of Ireland international Arter, who has won six caps for his country, has made over 200 appearances for Bournemouth since joining the club in 2010.
The 27-year-old signed a new four-year contract with the Cherries last July but has struggled to hold down a starting place this season.
West Ham could come up against Arter on Boxing Day when they travel to the Vitality Stadium to play Bournemouth.
Moyes is also interested in signing a centre-back and a striker in January as he attempts to preserve West Ham's Premier League status.