West Ham eyeing free agent Adam Webster | OneFootball

West Ham United are weighing up a move for experienced centre-back Adam Webster, according to The Sun.

The 31-year-old West Ham target is a free agent following the expiration of his Brighton & Hove Albion contract.

He ended a seven-year stay with the club this summer, but his future remains uncertain after failing to make a single appearance last season as he recovered from an ACL injury.

Despite not receiving a new deal, Webster has continued his rehabilitation at the club’s training ground while assessing his next move, with the Hammers eyeing his services.

Several clubs have made enquiries, although concerns over his long-term fitness remain a significant stumbling block. West Ham have been interested for some time now.

The Hammers explored a loan deal for Webster in January 2025 when Graham Potter was in charge at the London Stadium.

The club are once again considering the veteran as they prepare for life in the Championship.

Defensive reinforcements have become a priority with Jean-Clair Todibo and Konstantinos Mavropanos both expected to push for exits following relegation.

Recruitment has also been slowed by behind-the-scenes uncertainty due to the delay in Steve Nickson’s appointment to a recruitment role following David Sullivan’s resignation.

Signing Webster could be another colossal West Ham mistake

However, signing Webster now feels like a gamble West Ham cannot afford to take.

The Hammers need to build a squad capable of earning immediate promotion, not one reliant on an old player who has just missed an entire season with a serious knee injury.

A far more sensible option would be Marseille’s CJ Egan-Riley.

West Ham were keen on the England youth international after his outstanding Championship campaign with Burnley.

He helped the Clarets keep 26 clean sheets in 41 appearances while impressing with his dominance in duels and composure in possession.

His move to Marseille has not gone to plan, with opportunities proving scarce.

That should encourage West Ham to reignite their interest. The Hammers must consider a loan deal.

At 23, Egan-Riley offers athleticism and room for development. He has massive Championship experience.

If promotion is the objective, pursuing him makes more sense than pursuing Webster.