West Ham United are reportedly reigniting their interest in former Leeds United academy graduate Charlie Cresswell as manager Nuno Espirito Santo seeks to bolster his defensive ranks in the January transfer window.
Defensive Woes Prompt Transfer Search
The Hammers have identified the acquisition of a central defender as a top priority following a poor start to the Premier League season. Despite Nuno Espirito Santo securing two consecutive wins, significant concerns persist over the team's defensive solidity.
West Ham have conceded 23 goals so far this campaign, a record better only than Wolverhampton Wanderers, who have let in 25. Nuno has been relying on the partnership of Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo, with Konstantinos Mavropanos sidelined due to injury.
Cresswell's Path from Leeds to Toulouse
According to a report from talkSPORT, West Ham have 'reignited' their pursuit of Charlie Cresswell, the 23-year-old centre-back currently playing for Ligue 1 side Toulouse. The defender is a product of the Leeds United youth system but made only 14 senior appearances for the club.
After a 2023/24 season where he managed just 137 minutes of Championship football, Cresswell moved to France in July 2024. He previously enjoyed a productive loan spell at Millwall during the 2022/23 season, making 30 appearances and famously scoring twice on his debut against Stoke City.
England Ambitions Could Force Premier League Move
Cresswell's motivation for a potential move is heightened by his international aspirations. He was a key figure in Lee Carsley's England Under-21 side that successfully defended their European title this summer, scoring in the opening match and impressing in the final.
European football expert Andy Brassell has publicly advised the defender that he must seek a transfer to a more competitive club to break into the senior England squad. Speaking to talkSPORT, Brassell stated, "For me, before Charlie Cresswell gets into the full England squad, he's going to have to make a step up from Toulouse."
He elaborated that a move to a mid-table Premier League team would provide the platform needed to build towards selection for Euro 2028, suggesting the 2026 World Cup is coming too soon. The report also notes that Liverpool and Manchester United have previously shown interest in the player.
With his future the subject of increasing speculation, a January return to England with West Ham appears to be a growing possibility for the ambitious defender.
