The identity of West Ham’s main transfer target — tipped today by talkSPORT — will be familiar to many supporters, and I suspect, warmly received.
Because despite an upturn in results and performances under Nuno Espirito Santo, West Ham’s defence still looks shaky as hell. While a striker and a box-to-box midfielder have both been discussed as January priorities, most fans would agree that what the Hammers truly need is a commanding central defender.
So to see Charlie Cresswell heavily linked with a move to the London Stadium is no bad thing. In fact, hearing talkSPORT report that West Ham are “serious” about signing the former Leeds United man is music to my ears.
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Cresswell could be exactly what Nuno’s West Ham defence needs
No-Nonsense Defender Who Loves to Defend
Cresswell has been a revelation since joining Toulouse, where he’s earned a reputation as one of the best pure defenders in France. He’s currently ranked as the top header of the ball in Ligue 1, and his no-nonsense, old-school approach is exactly what West Ham’s fragile backline needs.
At just 23 years old, Cresswell is already showing excellent leadership qualities, aerial dominance, and a real knack for attacking set-pieces — having scored three goals this season. He’s the kind of player who simply loves defending, something the Hammers have sorely lacked of late.
If West Ham can get this transfer window right, there’s every chance of steering clear of relegation. But Nuno Espirito Santo can’t rely solely on Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman, even with their recent improvements.
That’s why I’m cautiously buzzing to hear the manager is targeting a defender who could immediately improve West Ham’s defence — and bring some much-needed grit back to the London Stadium.