By Kevin Campbell

1st Dec, 2022 | 12:18pm

Pundit suggests West Ham finalising 'crucial' signing after Kurt Zouma news

Kevin Campbell has claimed it is “absolutely crucial” for West Ham to draft in a new centre-back in January after Kurt Zouma’s injury.

The former Arsenal striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the Irons could be “staring down the barrel” if they have any further defensive casualties.

West Ham confirmed last week (24 November) via club media that Zouma has undergone knee surgery and will continue his rehabilitation at the Rush Green training ground.

New signing Nayef Aguerd has failed to start a Premier League game this season after recovering from a serious injury layoff of his own.

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed in October that Craig Dawson wants to leave West Ham in January after failing to secure a summer move to Wolves.

Club insiders Claret and Hugh (7 November) have claimed the Irons will have a modest budget to work with in the mid-season window – with loans or cut-price deals the most likely incomings.

Campbell told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “It’s going to be a tricky window.

“I think they need bodies.

“They’ve got to be able to plug that hole. Kurt Zouma is a big loss, but all you need is one more injury and you’re really in trouble and staring down the barrel of the relegation zone.

“It might be a loan, but it’s absolutely crucial that they get someone through the door in January.”

West Ham sit 16th in the Premier League – just one point above the relegation zone.

They return to action against Arsenal on 26 December.

In other news, Football Insider updates as West Ham tell academy product to find new club.