Charlie Cresswell Emerges as Key Target for West Ham United’s Defensive Rebuild

West Ham’s Pursuit of Defensive Reinforcement

West Ham United are preparing a transfer proposal for Toulouse centre-back Charlie Cresswell as the London club sits third-bottom of the Premier League table, four points away from safety. The Hammers have conceded the second-most goals (38) of any team in the division, and 23-year-old Cresswell is viewed as a player who could reinforce their defence.

The former Leeds United defender has become a priority target for manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who is desperately seeking defensive stability during the January transfer window. Cresswell wins 3.91 aerial duels per 90 minutes, putting him in the 97th percentile in Europe’s top five leagues, making him an attractive option for a team struggling to keep clean sheets.

Cresswell’s Impressive Form at Toulouse

Cresswell joined Toulouse from Leeds in the summer of 2024 and has established himself as one of the French club’s most important players, playing every minute of Toulouse’s 16 Ligue 1 matches this term, scoring three goals and helping his side to keep six clean sheets. The 23-year-old was a key part of the England u-21 side that defended the European Championship last summer, earning 26 caps and being named in the Team of the Tournament following that triumph.

Competition from Premier League Rivals

West Ham are not alone in their pursuit of the talented defender. Liverpool and Newcastle are closely monitoring Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell, with Man City also expressing interest. However, there have been no concrete talks or negotiations yet between any clubs and Toulouse, leaving the race for his signature wide open.

Transfer Outlook and Significance

West Ham have a limited budget but feel the proposed terms for Cresswell should not be an issue, either at club or personal level, and he is now considering a switch to the London Stadium. For West Ham, securing Cresswell’s services could prove crucial in their battle against relegation, whilst for the player himself, a return to English football represents an opportunity to showcase the development he has achieved in France’s top flight.