Ghana international John Paintsil could be swapping clubs in the Premiership after West Ham granted Fulham permission to speak with the Black Stars defender.

John Paintsil and teammate, striker Bobby Zamora could be heading for Craven Cottage in the coming season if negotiations are successful.

The Ghana defender has started just seven Premier League games since joining the club in 2006.

"We recognise they had limited first-team opportunities last season," West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury said.

"They (John Paintsil and Bobby Zamora) want regular football and we have given them permission to speak to Fulham with a view to a move."

Paintsil has struggled to establish himself at Upton Park since joining in 2006, with the majority of his 24 games coming off the bench.