Report claims renewed interest in January signing who could fix West Ham’s leaking defence

THE ONE area in which West Ham papered over the cracks in the summer window was with their two last minute defender loan signings.

Bringing in Brazilian Morato on a ‘dry’ loan and Adama Boiro on a loan to buy option might have helped, but it is no long-term solution.

Ironically, Morato, the centre back, appears to be well suited to filling in at left back – which solves one problem but creates another as it still leaves the Hammers chronically short of centre-back options.

Which is where today’s report offers fresh hope for a permanent signing in January. Thehardtackle.com report that West Ham are still planning to raid Championship side Cardiff for one of their highest-rated defenders:

“West Ham United are keen on acquiring the services of Cardiff City defensive sensation Dylan Lawlor in 2027….

West Ham were among the clubs monitoring Lawlor and wanted to sign him during the recently concluded transfer window. Cardiff ultimately managed to keep hold of their defender despite interest from several clubs, but the Hammers have not completely lost sight of him.

Lawlor could become a name to watch in the coming transfer windows, with West Ham potentially considering a move as early as January.”

West Ham were indeed interested in the summer just gone, but Lawlor was injured and sidelined. He’s finally due back onto the pitch after the international break and will have the autumn to prove his fitness has returned before the window opens and West Ham can do battle for the player’s signature in earnest.

Cardiff certainly won’t want to let their young player leave at a crucial time in the season but – as the Irons have proven in the summer with their successful pursuit of Arne Engels, they have the strategy and the funds to get their man.