West Ham identify potential Dinos Mavropanos replacement as £17m Roma defender joins shortlist

However, West Ham are likely to sign at least two defenders, regardless of which league they are in, due to some potential outgoings.

Ziolkowski has seemingly been identified as a replacement for either Dinos Mavropanos or Axel Disasi should they leave.

West Ham lead race to sign Newcastle target Jan Ziolkowski

West Ham’s centre-back department could look entirely different next season, with up to three departures this summer.

Max Kilman has probably played his last game for the club and is expected to be sold in the coming months.

Axel Disasi will return to his parent club, Chelsea, and it remains to be seen whether the Hammers can sign him permanently.

Meanwhile, Dinos Mavropanos has been linked with a return to Germany, as Borussia Dortmund are reportedly interested.

It makes sense for West Ham already to be looking at centre-back targets, with Jan Ziolkowski the latest name on the shortlist.

The 20-year-old Poland international has struggled for regular playing time at Roma, who would be willing to let him go.

Il Romanista has reported that the Serie A club would accept a fee in the region of £17 million (€20m).

West Ham are thought to be the “foremost” team in the race to sign Ziolkowski, despite Newcastle’s interest.

Sport.pl reported last month that Eddie Howe’s side were “closely monitoring” the defender ahead of the transfer window.

Ziolkowski would be an excellent signing for either Premier League club, given his experience in Serie A and at international level.

If Mavropanos were to leave, the Hammers would struggle to find a better deal than just £17m for this exciting prospect.