By Sean Fisher

17th Nov, 2022 | 3:40pm

Craig Dawson 'almost certain to leave' West Ham United as transfer news emerges

Craig Dawson’s West Ham exit is “almost certain” according to Claret & Hugh, leaving David Moyes with an issue in defence

Dawson has spent three seasons in east London after initially joining the Hammers on loan in 2020. He was an immediate hit with the fans and has been a regular part of Moyes’ side ever since.

However, Dawson revealed that he wishes to be closer to his family in the north of England, and almost left the Hammers in the summer. [The Athletic]

A deal was never completed, but it seems the 32-year-old is still set on leaving West Ham, with Claret & Hugh suggesting it’s “almost certain” that he departs in January.

“With Craig Dawson looking almost certain to leave, another central defender will also be required but the biggest question of all is whether the board will trust Moyes with more cash, however little or much is available,” read the report.

A huge blow

Despite Dawson entering the twilight years of his career, his departure will be a huge blow for West Ham.

He’s scored some very important goals during his time in east London and he has become a cult hero among the fanbase. His leadership skills are priceless and Moyes could always rely on him to consistently perform at centre-back.

Thilo Kehrer and Kurt Zouma will have huge boots to fill should Dawson leave, and it’ll likely leave Moyes needing to dip into the transfer market to once again expand his defensive department.

Spezia centre-back Jakub Kiwior has emerged as a target for the Hammers, with Calcio Mercato revealing that the club tried to sign the 22-year-old in the summer.

Sao Paulo defender Luizao is another who has been on West Ham’s radar with gazetaesportiva reporting that a contract agreement is already being finalised between the clubs over a January move.

It seems Wst Ham are already preparing for Dawson’s departure, but it will hardly soften the blow.