West Ham could be in the market for a new defender this month – or they could wait for the summer.
Fabian Balbuena and Issa Diop were both drafted in last summer and have impressed at the back for the Irons.
But with Balbuena out injured, Angelo Ogbonna has been promoted to a first-team starting role. Ogbonna has received his fair share of criticism and has also been linked with an exit.
With Winston Reid out injured for a long time, West Ham need a new central defender. And Leeds United ace Pontus Jansson would be the ideal candidate.
Various media reports have linked Ogbonna with an exit this month or next summer. According to the print edition of The Daily Mirror vi HITC Sport, the 13-cap Italy international is a target for Bologna.
Regardless of whether Ogbonna stays or goes, though, West Ham need a new central defender. Reid and Balbuena are out injured, leaving West Ham light in that department.
Ogbonna’s performances have been erratic at times but he has been reliable for West Ham in the past. Nonetheless, Manuel Pellegrini will be eyeing a long-term replacement for the 30-year-old.
Pontus Jansson would be a shrewd acquisition, although it may have to wait until the summer. And with Leeds United in prime position to win promotion, it may take a second-half collapse for West Ham to snap the dominant defender up.
The 27-year-old has been a regular for Leeds for the past three seasons, establishing himself as a fan favourite with his passionate displays.
Standing at 6ft 5in tall, the Sweden international is tough to beat in the air and he also provides a threat from set pieces.
Jansson is also strong in the tackle and his commitment is unquestionable, making him a perfect third centre-back to compete with Balbuena and Diop.