Bilic hunts for new left-back after Cresswell injury blow

WEST HAM have made signing an experienced left-back a priority following the news that Aaron Cresswell faces up to four months out injured.

Cresswell could require knee surgery after he was injured in a tackle during the pre-season friendly against Karlsruher last weekend.

The defender was crucial to West Ham finishing seventh last season and boss Slaven Bilic is desperate to sign a quality replacement before the start of the season. However, it is understood Bilic will not recall Stephen Hendrie from a loan spell at Blackburn.

The club were looking at youngsters Charlie Taylor, of Leeds, and Walsall’s Rico Henry as cover before Creswell’s injury but will now go for an established player.

Relegated Norwich could be the focus of their attention with both Martin Olsson and Robbie Brady’s futures at Carrow Road uncertain.

Sweden international Olsson, 28, is in the final season of his contract and Brady’s profile has increased significantly following his winning goal for the Republic of Ireland against Italy at Euro 2016.

West Ham are still waiting for Olympic chiefs to release Manuel Lanzini after he damaged his knee against Colombia. The forward cannot be replaced in Argentina’s squad for Rio until he has been checked by an IOC medic.

West Ham are poised to confirm the loan signing of Argentine striker Jonathan Calleri. The 22-year-old, who established his reputation at Boca Juniors, has been on loan at Brazilian club Sao Paulo.