Leicester City’s Ben Nelson is one such player. West Ham began tracking a number of Leicester players after their relegation to League One, including Abdul Fatawu, whose situation was linked to the possibility of Bowen leaving. Fatawu now appears more likely to join Ipswich.
Interest in Nelson is described as genuine, although he has several other admirers, including Manchester United, Sunderland and Torino. Leicester are thought to want around £10–12 million for the defender.
Cardiff City have also been a focus for recruitment. West Ham have looked at players such as Yousef Salech, Rubin Colwill and Dylan Lawlor, with Lawlor in particular remaining a strong target and discussions with Cardiff continuing.
Loan options from Premier League clubs are also being explored. Chelsea’s Genesis Antwi has been considered, although he is expected to join Strasbourg. Arsenal youngster Jaden Dixon is another possibility and already has a small amount of Championship experience from his time at Stoke City.
The most realistic loan option may be Manchester City defender Stephen Mfuni, who impressed during a loan spell at Watford and could be available for another temporary move.
West Ham are believed to be in active talks with a number of these defenders, and midfield recruitment is also underway. The club expect progress to take time because many of their preferred targets are attracting interest from teams with greater financial power or Premier League status.
Overall, the emphasis has shifted toward securing a smaller number of higher-quality signings rather than making numerous additions, partly because more current players are expected to remain at the club than initially anticipated.
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