West Ham United have little room for defensive disruption as Nuno Espírito Santo pursues an immediate return to the Premier League. After relegation last season, the Hammers need consistency at both ends of the pitch, particularly with their backline struggling to maintain control under pressure.
Their defensive problems resurfaced in a 3-2 defeat against Southampton, while the Championship campaign has exposed weaknesses in organisation. With 14 league goals conceded in 11 matches, Nuno cannot afford to lose an experienced centre-back without securing suitable cover.
Konstantinos Mavropanos has become an important figure in that battle. The 28-year-old Greek international has made 11 Championship appearances this season, scoring five goals, including four headers, while recording 19 tackles and 73 clearances. He has added an assist across two EFL Cup appearances, giving West Ham a valuable threat at attacking set-pieces.
However, a knee injury suffered this week has complicated his immediate situation. His absence leaves Nuno with fewer defensive options at a time when the Hammers need stability, making a potential January departure even harder to justify.
According to West Ham Zone, citing Turkish outlet Takvim, Besiktas have identified Mavropanos as a priority target for January. Manager Vincenzo Italiano wants defensive reinforcements, and the Turkish club’s hierarchy has begun examining the conditions for a potential deal.
West Ham currently have no intention of allowing the centre-back to leave during the winter window. His contract situation, though, could force a difficult decision next summer, when the club risks losing negotiating leverage if he refuses to extend his deal.
Should West Ham reject Besiktas and risk a reduced fee next summer?
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 19: Konstantinos Mavropanos of West Ham United celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Sky Bet Championship 2026/27 match between Millwall and West Ham United at The Den on September 19, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
West Ham should resist a January sale unless his injury significantly changes his recovery outlook. Mavropanos contributes goals, aerial strength and defensive experience, qualities Nuno needs during a demanding promotion campaign. His five goals already make him a valuable contributor beyond his primary defensive duties.
Selling him midway through the season could weaken an already vulnerable defence. Maximilian Kilman remains under contract until 2031, while Morato’s loan from Nottingham Forest runs until 2027, but neither arrangement removes the need for experienced options.
Financially, promotion offers a stronger prize than a speculative winter fee. However, the board must establish Mavropanos’ intentions early and offer an extension if he remains central to its plans. If he refuses, West Ham should assess credible summer bids against the cost of losing his contribution during the promotion race.
No confirmed Besiktas offer, transfer fee or weekly wage appears in the cited report, so specific figures would be speculative.