West Ham United reportedly hold an interest in signing one of Chelsea's central defenders during the January transfer window.
Head coach Julen Lopetegui is currently battling to save his job at the London Stadium after a less-than-impressive start to life with the East Londoners.
The Hammers have won just four of their opening 14 matches in the Premier League, conceding 27 goals in the process, and the Spaniard is allegedly in need of a win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night to keep his job.
Nevertheless, it appears that the club's hierarchy are already giving consideration to how they can improve their backline at the turn of the year.
Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo in action in September 2024.© Imago
West Ham monitoring Adarabioyo situation?
According to Footmercato, West Ham have identified Tosin Adarabioyo as a potential loan target.
The report suggests that the 27-year-old has been earmarked as someone who could bring more stability to the defence during the second half of the campaign.
Adarabioyo has endured a mixed start to life at Stamford Bridge having signed from Fulham in the summer, featuring for just 262 minutes in the Premier League.
That said, the former Manchester City youngster has still made nine starts and two substitute outings in all competitions, proving his value in fierce competition for places.
With Wesley Fofana currently sidelined for the remainder of the year with a hamstring injury, Adarabioyo can expect more minutes over the coming weeks.
However, West Ham seemingly feel that they can tempt Chelsea into allowing Adarabioyo to make the temporary switch across the capital in order to earn more game time.
West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui on September 21, 2024© Imago
Are West Ham likely to be successful?
If Adarabioyo was to move to West Ham, he would likely be chosen to partner either Max Kilman or Jean-Clair Todibo in the middle of the back four.
From Chelsea's perspective, though, they are unlikely to see any value in allowing Adarabioyo to depart the club, particularly when he is regarded as a leader in the dressing room.
The same stance is expected to be taken regarding the availability of Benoit Badiashile, who is said to be attracting interest from clubs in Europe.
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