Despite the centre-back being 36, there is likely to be a scramble for the signature of the former England captain and Bilic admitted he is one of many admirers of Terry.

"We are going to see," he said.

"I'm a big admirer of John, he is one of the best that ever played, not only in that position but in general.

"He won everything, he did everything and we are talking about an England captain, a true leader.

"We are pretty well covered in that position, we have quality and we have experience, but we will see. You never say never."

Bilic denied reports of a row with Hammers striker Diafra Sakho, who was missing from the squad which drew 2-2 at Sunderland last weekend.

There was speculation that Sakho did not travel after refusing to be a substitute at the Stadium of Light, but Bilic insisted there was no bust-up.

"He was injured," said the Croatian.

"There was no row, I should know about that because it was me who spoke with him. He was injured."

Bilic could do with Sakho being available to face Everton at the London Stadium on Saturday with Andy Carroll once again out injured.

Carroll is struggling with a recurrence of a groin problem so Bilic will assess Sakho's fitness.

"He is supposed to train today (Thursday), then we will see," added Bilic.

Bilic will also be without right-back Sam Byram and captain Mark Noble through suspension against Everton, but defender Winston Reid is fit after a groin injury.