West Ham boss Manuel Pellegrini is poised for a late dive into the transfer market before deadline day passes on Thursday.

With a central defender the target, it remains to be seen whether he plumps for a Premier League proven player like Gary Cahill or a younger player, with Aaron Long the name in the frame should he be able to get a work permit.

In normal circumstances Long would probably be the choice and there was a hint of desperation in his announcement on Sky Sports that: “as our biggest ally, it seems strange that a football player from the US can’t automatically get a work visa to play in England. “

With time short it may be a real gamble to continue the interest with the work permit question looking a real problem which could could shorten the odds against Cahill who at 33 and on a free may prove is known to interest the boss.

Sadly, however, the Hammers have had little fortune with such signings and we could be poised for a surprise arrival in the shape of a younger defender although – despite murmurings behind the scenes – no names have been revealed.