Kevin Nolan has urged one of West Ham’s top January targets to join the Hammers over London rivals.

Everytime Edson Alvarez is unavailable it becomes painfully clear how much West Ham need backup for him. The whole midfield falls apart in his absence and this leaves the defence vulnerable. Luckily, this is something that David Moyes and his team have recognised, making them keen to bring in a midfielder this month.

As it stands, the most likely candidate is Kalvin Phillips. The Manchester City man has struggled to get playing time since his big move and is eager to play consistently in order to secure a place in England’s Euro 2024 squad.

Ever since his Leeds days, Moyes has been an admirer of the 28 year old. His ability to play as both a box to box midfielder as well as a defensive one makes him an extremely useful option to have and, therefore, he would probably start most games for the Hammers, assuming he can find his fitness.

With so many clubs being on a limited budget this January, him being available on loan has attracted other teams, namely Crystal Palace and Newcastle. While it looks like the Geordies are no longer pursuing him, Palace are still pursuing a deal but first team coach Kevin Nolan has urged him to move to East London instead. 

“Who isn’t a massive admirer of Kalvin Phillips?” Nolan asked BBC 5 Live Sport. “England international, top player, brilliant at Leeds – one of the main reasons they stayed in the league – one of the reasons Man City paid the money they did.”

“So look we’re massive admirers of Kalvin and he’d be a great one to add to our squad. I think he’d only be a great acquisition. That’s all I can say and I’m hoping if he’s going to go anywhere from Man CIty, I would rather it be us than Crystal Palace.”

Recent reports would suggest that Nolan may get his wish as the Irons are apparently leading the race for his signature.

Obviously, there are massive concerns over his match fitness, not to mention his injury record, but if that can be managed he will be a sensational addition to the squad. Many fans believe that our Irons’ midfield is already better than when we had Declan Rice, someone like Phillips takes it to a different level.