Kanoute would reportedly cost �8m

Liverpool are bidding to ease their Premiership plight with the acquisition of West Ham striker Freddie Kanoute, according to a report.

The Hammers forward is rated at �8m and is seen by Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier as the perfect answer to ease the club's 11-match winless streak in the Premiership.

Kanoute is currently out injured with an on-going groin complaint and is receiving treatment in Canada.

But, despite his fitness problems, Houllier, according to the Daily Express newspaper, is prepared to pay �6m up front for the Frenchman and a further �2m if he helps Liverpool clinch a place in the Champions League.

West Ham are bottom of the Premiership with just 16 points from 21 matches.

Despite their position, they are said to be willing to sell the player but value him at �10m.

Any deal would free up funds for Hammers manager Glenn Roeder who is keen to bring in a series of players before the close of the transfer window at the end of January.

Roeder has already brought in midfielder Lee Bowyer.

But Ipswich striker Marcus Bent and former England forward Les Ferdinand are among those at the top of his shopping list.