Cole move to Stoke falls through

Cole scored only five times for West Ham last season

West Ham striker Carlton Cole’s move to Stoke has broken down after the player failed to come to an agreement over wages.

The Potters had agreed a fee with the London club earlier in the week for the 27-year-old England player.

“The negotiations did not break down because he asked for too much money,” a West Ham spokesman told BBC Sport.

“He was discussing wage parity with other key players and was well within his right to do so.”

More to follow.