West Ham's Defensive Crisis Spurs Deadline Day Chase for Chelsea's Disasi
West Ham United are racing against the clock to bolster their leaky defence before the January transfer window closes, with manager Nuno Espirito Santo desperate for reinforcements. The Hammers hold the unenviable record of the worst defensive performance in the Premier League this season, having conceded a staggering 48 goals. This vulnerability was starkly highlighted in a recent defeat to Chelsea, where a red card for Jean-Clair Todibo compounded their woes and added urgency to their search for a new centre-back.
Disasi Deal Agreed, but Player Commitment in Doubt
According to reports, West Ham have reached an agreement with Chelsea for the loan signing of defender Axel Disasi. The 27-year-old, who has been sidelined at Stamford Bridge and spent last season on loan at Aston Villa, is said to have an offer on the table from the London club. However, significant doubts remain over whether Disasi is willing to commit to West Ham's intense relegation battle. Journalist James Rosser noted that talks are ongoing with the player himself, who previously turned down a move to the Hammers in the summer, raising questions about his stance on this potential switch.
Earlier links to other targets, such as Toulouse's Charlie Cresswell and Newcastle United's Jamaal Lascelles, have cooled, making Disasi the most likely candidate. Nuno Espirito Santo is reportedly unconvinced by his current defensive options, including Max Kilman, Todibo, and Konstantinos Mavropanos, underscoring the critical need for a reliable addition to shore up the backline.
Leicester City Eye Return for Hermansen
In a parallel development, West Ham could face another departure on Deadline Day, with goalkeeper Mads Hermansen linked with a return to Leicester City. The Hammers signed Hermansen for £20 million last summer, but the 25-year-old quickly lost his starting spot to Alphonse Areola after a shaky start to the campaign. Leicester, now in the Championship, are reportedly considering a move to bring him back to the King Power Stadium, as current goalkeeper Jakub Stolarczyk has managed only four clean sheets this season. Other Championship sides are also said to be interested in Hermansen, who played a key role in Leicester's promotion under Enzo Maresca two years ago.
This potential exit follows the recent departures of first-team stars Lucas Paqueta and James Ward-Prowse, adding to the squad upheaval at West Ham. As the transfer deadline looms, the club's ability to secure Disasi and manage Hermansen's future will be crucial in their fight for Premier League survival.
