West Ham United are attempting to put the finishing touches to Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, with defensive reinforcements emerging as a priority in the final hours of the transfer window.
The Hammers have endured a difficult beginning to the campaign and remain winless after their opening three league matches. With the 11pm deadline rapidly approaching, the club are assessing opportunities to add greater depth and reliability to their backline.
According to Football Insider, West Ham are now exploring a late move for Swansea City centre-back Ben Cabango, with the 26-year-old identified as a strong option ahead of Tuesday night’s deadline.
West Ham turn attention to Cabango
Cabango would bring considerable Championship experience after establishing himself as one of Swansea’s most dependable performers. The Wales international came through the club’s academy and has subsequently become a near-permanent fixture at the heart of their defence.
He made 45 league appearances in each of the last two campaigns and missed the starting XI for just one of Swansea’s 46 Championship fixtures during the 2025/26 season. That consistency has attracted West Ham as they search for another centre-back capable of immediately strengthening Nuno’s defensive options.
A move would also continue the Hammers’ recent focus on players with significant Championship experience. Joel Piroe and Manor Solomon have already arrived with extensive knowledge of the second tier, and Cabango could become the latest player fitting that recruitment profile.
Hammers also pushing for Ryan Giles
Centre-back is not West Ham’s only defensive concern heading into the final hours. The club are also pursuing Hull City left-back Ryan Giles following El Hadji Malick Diouf’s departure. West Ham have already had an offer rejected for Giles but remain interested in a potential loan-to-buy agreement and could return with another proposal before the deadline.
That leaves the Hammers attempting to complete significant defensive business against the clock, with Cabango now firmly among the players under consideration. Cabango would represent a relatively low-risk addition for West Ham given his remarkable availability and extensive senior experience.
Starting 45 Championship matches in consecutive seasons demonstrates the kind of durability Nuno could value, particularly after West Ham’s concerning start to the campaign. The major obstacle is time.
Cabango has spent his entire career with Swansea City, and negotiating his departure this late in the window may not be straightforward. But with West Ham United actively seeking defensive reinforcements, this is certainly one to watch as the deadline approaches.
