With West Ham struggling for options at centre-back, manager David Moyes is expected to delve into the transfer market next month to shore up the numbers.

When asked by a fan on Twitter which player he would like the Hammers to sign in the January transfer window, former striker Tony Cottee replied with three names:

Losing Cresswell, Ogbonna and Zouma in this busy period has been really unfortunate. I think you’re right with a new cb needed… Gomez, Ake, tarkowski?

— Tony Cottee (@TonyCottee9) December 27, 2021

Manchester City’s Nathan Ake has been mentioned as a potential target for the London club but the former Chelsea and Bournemouth player won’t come cheap. A loan deal would be more realistic, although the Citizens may not want to see him leave on a temporary basis.

Burnley’s James Tarkowski has been on Moyes’ radar for the last couple of years and, with his contract expiring, he could be snapped up for a fraction of what he is worth.

Liverpool’s Joe Gomez hasn’t really been linked with the Irons and, like Ake, he is unlikely to be available on loan. A move for his teammate Nat Phillips is believed to be a more likely option.