Chelsea could play a role in potentially getting West Ham relegated from the Premier League this season.
Nuno Espirito Santo desperately needs a new defender as the Hammers have conceded the most goals in the English top flight in the 2025/26 campaign.
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Even Wolves, who are 20th, have conceded three fewer, while Burnley have conceded two fewer than the 44 let in by the London Stadium outfit.
However, Chelsea’s transfer activity could prevent the Irons from getting a key defensive target.
Stade Rennes to enter Charlie Cresswell race after what Chelsea did
Charlie Cresswell has been admired by West Ham since the summer transfer window, and he is a target in January as well.
Talks have been held with Toulouse for the English centre-back, but they are yet to result in anything concrete.
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At the same time, other clubs have entered the race for the 23-year-old, and he appears likely to leave the French side this month.
However, Chelsea’s recent move could prevent the Hammers from signing the former Leeds United man.
The Blues are closing in on Stade Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, and his departure could see the Ligue 1 club enter the market for a replacement.
According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, Rennes are considering opening talks for Cresswell.
Given the money they are expected to get from Jacquet’s sale, they can easily outbid the Irons for the centre-back.
West Ham appear set to miss out on yet another target
Cresswell is not the only player the Hammers are likely to miss out on in January.
Chelsea keeper Filip Jorgensen is another target for West Ham this month.
The Irons were even hopeful that the Blues would be willing to part ways with him in the coming days.
However, he has now picked up an injury, and that could scupper any plans of bringing him to the London Stadium.
It remains to be seen if an alternative goalkeeper is targeted or if Nuno asks for the entire transfer budget to be allocated towards bringing in a quality centre-back.
Alphonse Areola has fared decently between the sticks this term, so it makes sense if the East London outfit decide against signing an upgrade on the Frenchman.
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