West Ham’s resurgence under Nuno Espírito Santo continues at a steady pace.
Sunday’s 1–1 draw away at Brighton — secured through Jarrod Bowen before a late Georginio Rutter equaliser — extended their run to just one defeat in six Premier League matches.
The signs of improvement are clear, even if the Hammers should arguably have taken all three points.
But while performances have stabilised, one issue remains glaring: the defence.
West Ham have conceded 29 goals already this season, the joint-third worst record in the division, and that fragility remains a major reason they are still stuck in the relegation zone.
Reinforcements at the back are a priority — and a standout option has now emerged.
West Ham Tracking Baidoo
TEAMtalk report that West Ham are among several English clubs keeping close tabs on Lens defender Samson Baidoo, who is rapidly building a big reputation in Ligue 1.
The 21-year-old only joined Lens from Red Bull Salzburg in the summer, but his impact has been immediate.
Lens currently sit top of the French top flight, one point clear of PSG, boasting the division’s strongest defensive record — and Baidoo, labelled “monstrous” by teammate Robin Risser, has been central to that success.
Signed for just €8m, the Austrian international has proven a superb piece of business for Lens, arriving as cover for Abdukodir Khusanov and Kevin Danso, both of whom moved to the Premier League. Khusanov joined Manchester City for €40m, while Tottenham spent £21m to land Danso.
West Ham, meanwhile, are scouring the market for defensive upgrades after a leaky first half of the season. Baidoo’s athleticism, reading of the game and strong aerial presence make him an appealing option.
However, they won’t be alone in the chase — Crystal Palace are also tracking him as they brace for the likely departure of Marc Guehi, whose contract situation remains unresolved.
Baidoo’s rise has made him one of Europe’s most intriguing young defenders, and with West Ham desperately needing to tighten up at the back, it’s no surprise he features high on their shortlist.
Competition will be fierce, but if the Hammers can steal a march on rivals, he could be exactly the type of long-term defensive leader Nuno needs.
