West Ham could revisit a move for Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell in January, according to reports.
The Hammers are believed to have had a bid rejected for the 23-year-old during the last transfer window, but talkSPORT claim that the Hammers have “reignited” their interest.
Cresswell has built a reputation for himself in France, and speaking about his progress, European football expert Andy Brassell said he is starting to see similarities in his game to a former Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea centre-back:
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“He’s at this stage now where not only is he defending very, very well, but he’s making the most of his strength and power at set pieces.”
“It sort of recalls, like a Thiago Silva, someone who’s a real threat in the opposition penalty box, who’s got real smarts about him.”
West Ham need to reinforce the backline
The Irons have the second-worst defensive record in the Premier League, having conceded 23 times in only 11 matches so far this season. Only bottom-of-the-table Wolves have let in more goals.
Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman have not performed well, while Konstantinos Mavropanos is currently on the treatment table, having injured his hamstring against Brentford last month.
The Greek centre-half is expected to return after the international break, but it does demonstrate the lack of depth that Nuno Espirito Santo has in defence.
How much would Cresswell cost?
The former England Under 21 international’s valuation is believed to be between €20m (£17.7m) and €25m (£22.1m).
You wouldn’t say that the price is exorbitant based on what other centre-backs have gone for in recent years, but a lot hinges on what sort of transfer budget Nuno is handed for January. From the sound of things, though, Cresswell seems to be high on the list of targets.
Read more about the West Ham First Team Squad for 2025/26 here