West Ham plotting move for Manchester City defender to bolster back line ahead of busy schedule

West Ham’s remarkable rise of late continued on Saturday as they beat London rivals Chelsea 3-2 in a thrilling encounter at the London Stadium.

David Moyes’ side twice came from behind before Arthur Masuaku’s bizarre late goal gave the hosts victory and knocked the Blues off of their perch at the top of the Premier League table.

The Hammers remain in the top four and, having already qualified for the knockout stages of the Europa League, things are very much looking up for the club.

One of the only negatives for West Ham so far this season has been a knee injury sustained by defender Angelo Ogbonna, expected to keep him out for the remainder of the campaign.

Ogbonna is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines

In his absence, Issa Diop has stepped up to fill the void left by the Italian, however Kurt Zouma was injured in the victory over Chelsea and is expected to be out until March.

Following that news, Moyes is now planning on adding reinforcements to his backline in January, according to The Sun.

The report suggests that West Ham have identified Manchester City defender Nathan Ake as a suitable candidate to fill the gap.

The Dutchman has started just three league games in the league so far this term, and is behind Ruben Dias, John Stones and Aymeric Laporte in the pecking order at the Etihad.

The Hammers would not be able to fork out a substantial fee for the 26-year-old, but are quietly confident that they can lure him away on a loan deal with the promise of regular first team football.

The potential deal depends largely on whether or not Pep Guardiola will let the former Chelsea defender leave.

The Hammers face a hectic schedule over the festive period and in the second half of the campaign, with Carabao Cup and Europa League fixtures to come, as well as league games.

With only Diop and Craig Dawson as recognised centre-backs left at the club, there is a lot of pressure on Moyes to complete a signing in January.