Kevin Phillips believes that West Ham would be making the right call if they go after Manchester City defender Nathan Ake in the January transfer window.

The Hammers have two centre-backs out for the long term and Phillips feels Ake would be the perfect option to strengthen their numbers at the back:

“That’s a no-brainer for West Ham He’s not getting a huge amount of game time at Man City. He’s the type of player who needs to be playing regularly. Ake is a brilliant defender. With Zouma and Ogbonna out injured he would be a really good addition to their squad. He would give them some valuable experience as well, having played in Europe and won the title with Man City.”

It remains to be seen whether City would be prepared to offload Ake either on loan or on a permanent basis next month. The former Chelsea player joined from Bournemouth for £41m only last year, although he has struggled to nail down a place in Pep Guardiola’s side.

Recent reports have also suggested that the Dutchman would be interested in a switch to the London Stadium, but West Ham are said to be considering a number of different targets.

Burnley’s James Tarkowski is also thought to be on David Moyes’ shortlist, along with Ake and Liverpool’s Nat Phillips.