Premier League side West Ham United are desperate for top defenders ahead of the new season.
They failed to reach expected levels after an impressive run the previous term. SlavenBilic is under pressure to get his acts right this season.
Bilic has been linked with many defenders as he wants to solidify the squad. He spent much on transfers but injuries and several factors limited the options. This time he seems he is considering those factors. He was linked with former Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, 31. He chased the player last season while he was on loan at Roma but after another underwhelming season, it seems West Ham are looking elsewhere.
Roma refused to buy the Belgian defender on a permanent basis when the loan deal with Barcelona lapsed. His employers would be looking to offload him this summer but the Hammers want more reliable players.
West Ham recently got Pablo Zabaleta for free after he agreed two years with the club. They are reportedly keen on Man United’s Chris Smalling this summer. Smalling had an underwhelming season and seems to prefer an exit from Old Trafford as he does not align well with Jose Mourinho.
West Ham are also battling Watford and Crystal Palace for Inter defender DavideSanton. After signing Jose Fonte from Southampton, the defender did not impress so Bilic wants the 26-year old Santon who is seeking regular football. The player is in the final year of his contract with San Siro and he may be return to the Premier League if the deal goes through. Watford are at the forefront of prospective employers for the former Newcastle star. West Ham would have to beat them to land the player.
