West Ham’s season has gone from bad to worse in recent weeks, with Nuno Espírito Santo facing an uphill battle to turn things around.
The Hammers sit 19th in the Premier League, with just one win and five defeats to their name.
While the lack of goals has been a major issue, their defensive record has been even more alarming — conceding 16 goals, the most of any team in the division.
Nuno is expected to overhaul his backline in January as he looks to steady the ship and pull West Ham clear of relegation danger.
However, one key defender could now be on the move — and to a Premier League rival.
Crystal Palace Want Max Kilman
According to a new report from Football Insider, Crystal Palace have identified Max Kilman as a potential January target.
The Eagles are reportedly exploring options in defence as uncertainty grows around Marc Guéhi’s future. The England international came close to joining Liverpool on deadline day, only for the deal to collapse late on — but interest is expected to resurface when the window reopens.
Sources suggest Palace see Kilman as a natural replacement should Guéhi leave, with his Premier League experience and left-footed balance making him an attractive option.
The 28-year-old, who was described as a “top player” by Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, joined West Ham from Wolves in a £40 million deal and remains under contract at the London Stadium until 2031.
While West Ham’s defence has struggled this term, selling Kilman midway through the campaign would be a risky move. His leadership and composure remain among the few positives in a turbulent season, and unless the club can recoup their full investment — or more — reinvesting that money effectively in January could prove difficult.
For now, Palace’s interest adds yet another layer of uncertainty to what already looks like a defining winter window for Nuno and the Hammers.
