West Ham United are making a late-window push to bolster their backline, as mentioned in an earlier article Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell is emerging as their top target. The 23-year-old England U21 international has impressed in Ligue 1 and at the European Championships, where his leadership and aerial dominance earned him plaudits and a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Manager Graham Potter, sees Cresswell as a key piece in his defensive rebuild. The Hammers have reportedly made firm inquiries and are prepared to meet Toulouse’s £13 million asking price. With Nayef Aguerd set to depart for Marseille, Cresswell is viewed as a direct replacement.
Despite their aggressive pursuit of Cresswell, West Ham are hedging their bets. Should negotiations falter, the club is reportedly exploring loan deals for other centre-backs, including Chelsea’s Axel Disasi who has struggled for consistent minutes at Chelsea and could be available on loan. His physicality and experience in Ligue 1 and the Premier League make him a viable short-term fix. The Blues apparently seek a £5 million loan fee and West Ham to cover the Frenchman’s wages.
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It appears that the Hammers are likely to lose out to Crystal Palace for their attempt to secure Brazilian Igor Julio from Brighton: The lure of European football again likely to have scotched that option.
While Cresswell is clearly the preferred option, the club’s openness to loan deals suggests a pragmatic approach amid deadline-day chaos. West Ham’s insider, according to exWHUemployee, suggests “all balls are in the air” as far as deadline day signings are concerned.
Whether Cresswell arrives or the club pivots to a loan, you’ll be the first to know: It’s a fast moving situation so keep checking back with us for upto the minute info.