West Ham United have held talks over a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Ladislav Krejci as Nuno Espírito Santo looks to reshape his defensive options before the transfer deadline.
The Czechia international has been offered to the Hammers, with ExWHUEmployee reporting via The West Ham Way that discussions have already taken place over a potential move.
The development comes as Jean-Clair Todibo closes in on leaving West Ham, with the Frenchman already undergoing a Lens medical ahead of a season-long loan.
West Ham hold Ladislav Krejci talks
Krejci only became a permanent Wolves player this summer following a successful loan spell from Girona.
The 27-year-old made 28 appearances during his first campaign at Molineux before the clauses in his original deal triggered a permanent stay.
Wolves’ official player profile lists the 6ft 3in defender as capable of playing at centre-back and in midfield, giving him the versatility Nuno could value in a Championship squad.
Despite that permanent move, Krejci has featured only sparingly during the opening weeks of the new campaign.
ExWHUEmployee now says West Ham have been offered the defender and have held talks over a possible deal.
There is no indication yet that West Ham and Wolves have reached a club-to-club agreement or that a formal bid has been submitted.
Todibo departure increases defensive need
The timing is significant.
Todibo is closing in on a loan move to Lens, with RMC Sport reporting that the defender is already in France completing his medical.
That would remove another experienced centre-back from Nuno’s squad following a summer of considerable turnover.
West Ham have also considered Everton defender Michael Keane as they explore experienced defensive additions.
Youngster Airidas Golambeckis impressed on his full league debut during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Watford, but relying heavily on academy defenders throughout a 46-game promotion campaign would carry obvious risks.
Krejci could therefore offer a more experienced option before the transfer window closes.
Wolves fans unhappy with West Ham possibility
The prospect of Krejci moving to one of Wolves’ Championship promotion rivals has not gone down well among sections of their support.
Claret & Hugh highlighted the reaction from Wolves fans, with supporters questioning why the club would strengthen a direct rival.
That reaction is understandable given Krejci’s profile and the fact both clubs are targeting an immediate Premier League return.
However, the most important development for West Ham is not the supporter reaction.
It is that the Hammers have been offered Krejci and talks have already taken place.
With Todibo approaching the exit door and the deadline rapidly approaching, the Czech defender is now another name to watch closely.
