Sam Allardyce is desperate to keep Alex Song at West Ham but says the decision rests firmly with the player and they may have to wait until the end of the season.

Song has been a revelation for the east London club since arriving on a season-long loan from Barcelona and has played a major role in the team pushing for a European spot.

The former Arsenal midfielder is unlikely to make a return to the Nou Camp, but there will be no shortage of clubs wanting to sign him on a permanent basis, with Liverpool among those said to be monitoring his situation.

Allardyce is hoping that the club's move into the Olympic Stadium next year and a successful end to the season could persuade Song to pledge his long-term future to West Ham.

He said: "It depends on whether Alex wants to stay. We want him to stay and I certainly want him to stay. But that lies with the financial side and the chairman with the negotiations.

"Whether that is financially feasible is another matter and if other clubs of a greater size entice him away. It will depend on if he feels comfortable enough to further his career at West Ham based on what we have done this year.

"Performing the way we have done this year will of course help and if we can finish it off. There are many factors that have to be covered but if you ask me if I want him to stay - of course I do."

Source: talkSPORT