OPINION
West Ham conceded a joint league-high 68 goals last season as their defence fell apart on countless occasions under Slaven Bilic and then David Moyes.
Sorting out this abysmal defence will be high on Manuel Pellegrini’s agenda as he sets out his summer ahead as West Ham boss, with the club already linked with a swoop for Barcelona youngster Marlon Santos.
However, there have been reservations over such a move with Marlon’s young age and lack of experience at the top level counting against him, while concerns over his 5ft 11in frame have also been raised.
One player who the club would have no such concerns about and should swoop for this summer is Chelsea enforcer Kurt Zouma.
The young France international spent the 2017/18 season on loan at Stoke City, completing 37 games for the Potters as they were relegated from the top-flight.
While Stoke were admittedly the other side who managed to conceded 68 goals last season, there can be no doubting Zouma’s quality.
The 6ft 3in colossus [Transfermarkt] has been tipped for the top since a young age, and was severely unlucky when struck down by a serious knee injury during his emergence at Chelsea.
Zouma is exactly the kind of player that West Ham would be able to base their defence around, with his powerful and dominant play at the heart of the back line key to any successful defensive unit.
His poise on the ball is another massive asset, with Zouma belying his colossal frame with a good touch and accomplished passing ability that would allow the Hammers to build from the back.
As reported by the Daily Star, Zouma is set for another exit from Chelsea this summer, with Turkish side Bursaspor looking keen to sign him up.
West Ham must now move quickly to hijack this interest and snap Zouma up to keep him closer to home, giving him the chance to impress at the London Stadium next season.
A year-long loan with the option to buy would be a perfect deal, and it is one that the Hammers board must chase immediately.
