WEST HAM, Newcastle and Middlesbrough are all hoping to pick up Ghana captain Stephen Appiah on the cheap.

FIFA have ruled the former Fenerbahce ace can leave on a free transfer after recovering from alleged botched knee surgery by doctors of the Turkish club.

But Fenerbahce dispute the ruling and have warned clubs will have to pay dearly if they want to sign him.

Appiah, a powerful midfielder who can also defend and score goals, was once subject of a £7million bid by Portsmouth.

All three English clubs will watch him play for Ghana against Tunisia this week.

Appiah’s former club Juventus may also be interested but the player’s friendship with his Ghana team- mate, Chelsea’s Michael Essien, may favour a move to London and West Ham.