By Conor Hogan

West Ham boss Nuno Espírito Santo is keen to sign a centre-back in the January transfer window.

According to journalist Jacob Steinberg, the 51-year-old wants to strengthen his defence — and given the Hammers’ numbers this season, that comes as no surprise. 

West Ham have conceded 35 goals in 17 matches this season and are yet to keep a clean sheet under the Portuguese manager. Despite the recent upturn in form of Jean-Clair Todibo, reinforcements at the back look essential.

One player on West Ham’s radar is Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell. The 23-year-old was heavily linked with a move to London Stadium last summer, but a deal never materialised. 

That interest could now be reignited, with Cresswell having impressed since moving to France in 2024 and reportedly interested in a return to English football.

Cresswell fits the profile West Ham need. He is dominant in the air, ranking in the top five per cent of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues for aerial duels won. 

He also boasts strong numbers for clearances and blocks, while offering an attacking threat — scoring three goals and registering one assist in 16 appearances this season.

West Ham have looked fragile defensively, particularly from set-pieces, and Cresswell’s presence would help address that weakness while adding another option at the other end.

The former Leeds man does not turn 24 until August and would further lower the average age of Nuno’s squad. He also brings valuable experience of English football and would count towards the club’s homegrown quota.

Cresswell reportedly earns around €20,000 per week in France, a figure well within West Ham’s means — especially with Niclas Füllkrug’s wages off the books once his loan move to AC Milan is finalised.

All things considered, a move for Cresswell feels like a no-brainer for West Ham, who must prioritise centre-back reinforcements in January.