West Ham have officially entered “panic stations” as the January transfer deadline looms.
The east London side suffered a particularly painful defeat at the hands of Chelsea on Saturday.
And with the club currently languishing in 18th place and just 2/5 in the Premier League relegation odds betting – they certainly need reinforcements.
West Ham lost key centre back Jean Clair-Todibo to suspension during that Chelsea defeat so Monday represents a big day in the transfer market for the Hammers.
West Ham Transfer Target Odds
Here is the definitive look at West Ham’s chances of landing their top defensive targets before the window slams shut.
Axel Disasi (Chelsea) – The “Deal-Ready” Favourite
Odds: 2/1 (Next Club)
Probability: High
Axel Disasi has spent much of the season in Chelsea’s infamous “bomb squad,” failing to make a senior appearance since April 2025.
Sources close to the London Stadium confirm that West Ham have already opened formal talks for a straight loan deal.
The departure of Igor Julio has left a massive hole in Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad, and Disasi’s Premier League experience makes him the path of least resistance.
However, a late AC Milan transfer hijack remains the biggest threat.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Disasi would prefer a move to the San Siro, but West Ham are currently the only club offering a guaranteed starting spot.
Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Southampton) – The Tug-of-War
Odds: 4/1
Probability: Moderate
West Ham have already seen a £12m bid rejected by Southampton, with the Saints holding out for a fee closer to £20m to recoup their original investment.
Despite Southampton’s stance, the 24-year-old England international is reportedly “open” to a move back to the top flight to boost his 2026 World Cup chances.
Expect a final, “take it or leave it” bid from the Hammers in the region of £18m.
Nathan Ake (Manchester City) – The Dream Target
Odds: 7/1
Probability: Low
While Ake is the most talented name on this list, a move to East London remains a long shot.
Barcelona leads the chase at 4/1 if he leaves the Etihad, but West Ham are banking on Ake’s desire to stay in England.
Ake was an unused sub during their draw with Tottenham on Sunday with Pep starting the match with two left backs in the XI.
Tiago Gabriel (Lecce) – The Wildcard
Odds: 10/1
Probability: Moderate
The 6’4″ Brazilian has been the revelation of Serie A this season.
West Ham’s reported initial 18m Euro approach was rebuffed by Lecce, who are holding out for 25m Euro.
With the Paqueta funds now sitting in the bank, West Ham have the liquidity to meet this valuation if the Disasi or Harwood-Bellis deals collapse.
The Verdict: Who Signs?
West Ham will likely secure Axel Disasi on loan by Monday afternoon but it remains to be seen whether the club will double on defensive transfers.
