West Ham have signed Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo this summer for the centre back position. Kilman has been rock solid in preseason and Todibo has been one of the best central defenders in the French league. Julen Lopetegui's side have Konstantinos Mavropanos and Nayef Aguerd who are expected to be the third and fourth choice centre backs.
While Mavropanos has been decent in preseason, Aguerd still struggles with his physicality in the Premier League and looked slow on the ball in the preseason. Therefore, if one of Kilman or Todibo gets injured during the season, West Ham will concede more goals which can deny them a top six finish in the English top flight.
West Ham want £25 million Nantes defender Zeze
Hence, more defensive reinforcements are still possible if the Hammers sell Nayef Aguerd in this transfer window. According to Sport Italia, West Ham have set their sights on Nantes defender Nathan Zeze. The 19-year-old made his Nantes debut towards the end of the 2022/23 season and made thirteen appearances for the French side last season.
Standing at six foot tall, Zeze's physicality and his defensive capabilities have impressed West Ham who want to add the young centre back to their defensive ranks. His performances for Nantes last season drew favourable comparisons to established players like new West Ham summer signing Jean-Clair Todibo.
However, West Ham are unlikely to pay Zeze's £25 million transfer fee as the Hammers have recently brought in a new centre back and a right back. Also, West Ham should look to sign Zeze on a season long loan with an option to buy next season.
Meanwhile, Julen Lopetegui's side are preparing to face Aston Villa in the Premier League opening matchday at the London Stadium.