West Ham’s defensive struggles were laid bare again at the weekend, as they were beaten 3-2 by Aston Villa.
An own goal from Konstantinos Mavropanos and a second-half brace from Morgan Rogers ensured all three points went to the visitors.
The Hammers have now shipped 32 goals in 16 Premier League matches, leaving them 18th in the table and facing a serious relegation battle.
With defensive reinforcements a top priority, attention has turned back to a familiar target who could help shore up the backline in January.
West Ham Target Charlie Cresswell
West Ham are reportedly revisiting plans to sign Charlie Cresswell from Toulouse, according to Hammers News.
The 22-year-old former Leeds United defender, described as “excellent” by Gary Rowett, has impressed in Ligue 1, establishing himself as a key figure at his French club since leaving Elland Road last year.
The Hammers were keen on Cresswell during the summer, with a £13 million bid reportedly rejected by Toulouse.
Talks focused on a loan with an obligation to buy ultimately fell through, leaving West Ham short-handed at the back. Cresswell has also continued to shine internationally, helping England Under-21s lift the European Championship this summer.
Nuno Espirito Santo is understood to be a fan of the centre-back and West Ham insiders have confirmed that a January deal is back on the agenda.
ExWHUemployee noted on The West Ham Way Patreon: “If West Ham do turn to signing a centre back then Charlie Cresswell of Toulouse is thought to be one player on the radar, but as said a forward should take priority for now.”
A January move for Charlie Cresswell would address one of West Ham’s most pressing issues. With the Hammers conceding far too many goals, bringing in a defender of his quality could be crucial in their fight to stay in the Premier League.
