West Ham United are eager to improve their depth in central defence, which it will prioritise ahead of the January window.
According to Football Insider, West Ham United could prioritise bringing reinforcements to central defence when the January window opens. Julen Lopetegui will be short of centre-backs at least until the winter window opens, as they are also pondering bringing in an experienced free agent immediately.
West Ham to target centre-backs
West Ham United had a good summer window during which they managed to strengthen multiple areas of the pitch. From reinforcing their frontline to bringing in midfielders, the Hammers also sought two quality centre-backs.
They signed Jean-Clair Todibo from OGC Nice, while Max Kilman arrived from Wolves to reunite with his former boss Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium. Beyond those two, the Hammers also have Konstantinos Mavropanos and young Kaelen Casey as their other options in central defence, which does expose a severe lack of depth.
West Ham allows the departures of three experienced centre-backs during the summer, with Angelo Ogbonna, Kurt Zouma, and Nayef Aguerd all leaving the club. The Hammers are keen to add depth to the position and will prioritise a centre-back or two when the January window opens.
The Hammers will have the funds to bring in a new player, as Lopetegui wants to target a European finish at the end of the campaign. Should one of his current stars pick up an injury, they will be paper thin in that area, meaning the club could also ponder an immediate deal, as there are a few free agents who could entice them.
West Ham keen on Joel Matip
On the subject of free agents, West Ham are keen on Joel Matip. The 33-year-old is available on a free transfer following his exit from Liverpool. He was a key part of Jurgen Klopp’s side until his serious injury last season.
Matip could be a great signing in the context of West Ham’s needs, as he would add to the squad’s depth. Should they bring the Cameroonian, they can have another option at least until January, and then they can angle a move for a solid option to strengthen the area.
