Former Chelsea forward Zola is believed to have held talks with Upton Park chiefs on Saturday, and impressed them enough to move firmly into the frame for the Hammers hot-seat.

His main rival for the post appears to be fellow Italian Donadoni, who also made a good impression on the club's hierarchy during talks on Friday.

Slaven Bilic was initially installed as the club's number one choice following Curbishley's departure earlier this week, but has been ruled out as he would not be available until January due to commitments with Croatia.

Michael Laudrup's name has also been thrown into the hat and he will reportedly hold talks with the club on Monday.

But Zola, who is currently joint coach of the Italy Under-21 side, and former Italy boss Donadoni appear to be ahead of Laudrup in the race as West Ham's director of football Gianluca Nani is a compatriot, and both would be happy with the continental-style working relationship.