West Ham would solve problem area by signing Newcastle’s Mbemba

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West Ham are suffering a defensive crisis following their 4-0 defeat to Everton.

West Ham United will be reeling from their defeat to Everton on Wednesday night that saw David Moyes’ former side earn a comfortable 4-0 victory at Goodison Park, but another concern will have emerged from the defeat.

New Zealand international Winston Reid hobbled off the field of play in the 77th minute after picking up what appeared to be a hamstring injury, and was replaced by youngster Declan Rice at the heart of the Hammers defence.

Jose Fonte has been ruled out until the new year, while James Collins’ comeback has been put on the back-burner after he suffered a hamstring injury when appearing for the Under-23 side on Tuesday night.

That leaves Moyes with just Angelo Ogbonna and Rice to choose from, highlighting a desperate need to add a centre-back to his ranks in the upcoming January transfer window.

Other than Rice, all four centre-backs are getting on a bit. Collins and Fonte are well into their thirties, while Reid and Ogbonna are both set to turn 30 next summer.

They need pace at the back, and that should see Moyes turn his attention to Newcastle outcast Chancel Mbemba in the winter window after the Evening Chronicle claimed the Toon would listen to offers for the 23-year-old ace.

Mbemba has hardly featured for Rafa Benitez’s side this season, perhaps unfairly, as the Spaniard prefers the likes of Jamaal Lascelles, Florian Lejeune and Ciaran Clark at centre-back.

But the defender, known for his explosive power and strength as well as his blistering pace at the back, is more than adept at playing in the Premier League and has shown quality during his 39 top-flight appearances in England.

The DR Congo international would be a top signing at the London Stadium, though, because he offers different qualities to the current Hammers centre-backs. His pace and quality when in possession is far greater than that of the current options.

With Newcastle said to be willing to sell and West Ham in desperate need of a new centre-back, landing Mbemba in January seems to be a move that would benefit all involved.