Why West Ham are 'likely to fail' in bid to sign Ladislav Krejci from Wolves

West Ham have made a late move to sign Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci.

The Hammers are desperate to strengthen at the back, especially with Jean-Clair Todibo's likely exit and with El Hadji Malick Diouf already departing.

Krejci is a proven leader, and has recently been made the captain of his nation, Czechia.

The 27-year-old has been of much interest this summer, with Leeds United looking at him earlier in the window.

However, they ended up signing players elsewhere in the market, with Krejci currently still at Wolves - a fact West Ham are unlikely to change themselves.

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The two reasons West Ham are unlikely to sign Ladislav Krejci

West Ham's move for Krejci is "likely to fail" for more than just one reason, according to BBC Sport.

The report states that Wolves do not wish to sell to a direct Championship rival this window.

After both the Old Gold and Irons were relegated they will both be competing for instant promotion back to the Premier League.

Additionally, Krejci's own wishes would also halt a move, even if Wolves did agree to an exit.

The report shares that the left-footed centre-back does not want to play in the second tier, with Wolves still hoping to keep him beyond the transfer deadline.

Where could West Ham look next?

West Ham are seemingly getting busy to tie down a new central defender before the window shuts.

A move for Nottingham Forest's Morato could be on after West Ham enquired about the Brazilian.

But it remains to be seen how advanced those talks can go over the next day or so.

Either way, Krejci looks to be off the table for the Hammers, with a pivot needing to be made, and quickly before the 11 PM on 1 September.