OPINION
West Ham United have been linked with a lot of defenders in this summer’s transfer window but Lewis Dunk should be the one they pursue.
West Ham are clearly in need of defensive reinforcements, after releasing the long-serving James Collins they’ve replaced him by signing French defender Issa Diop from Toulouse, but they still need more ahead of next season.
As reported by The Sun, The Hammers are keen on West Bromwich Albion defender Craig Dawson, who would be a decent signing if they decided to go for him.
However, Brighton defender Lewis Dunk would be a massive upgrade on what they’ve got at the moment and would be a better signing than Dawson.
The 26-year-old was sensational for The Seagulls last season, as they finished in an impressive 15th place in the Premier League after being promoted from the Championship the season before.
The Englishman made 38 appearances in the league last season, blocking 58 shots from the opposition, which is the most in the division, just one behind his teammate Shane Duffy (WhoScored?). He also made 71 interceptions, which is the fifth best in the division (WhoScored?).
Chris Hughton’s team only conceded a total of 54 goals in the entire campaign, which is the best defensive record of any of the bottom-half PL sides, and the 6ft 3in defender played a massive part in achieving that brilliant record (TransferMarkt).
Although Dawson is a good player, he couldn’t stop The Baggies from being relegated. Lewis Dunk was a vital part of Brighton’s league finish and he did stop them being relegated, giving him the upper hand.
He may cost a bit more than Dawson, but this is not the time for Manuel Pellegrini’s side to be saving money, they need to buy quality players who will make an immediate impact, which Dunk absolutely guarantees.
