West Ham United are interested in signing AS Roma defender Chris Smalling, according to a recent report.

The Lowdown: West Ham targeting a defender

It was reported during the January transfer window that the Irons 'definitely' wanted to sign a new centre-back, amid links to the likes of Michael Keane and Aaron Long.

However, the Hammers' only addition in that area of the pitch was Sao Paulo defender Luizao, who is linking up with Mark Robson's development squad for the time being, so David Moyes may still want another central defensive signing in the summer.

The Latest: Smalling eyed by West Ham

According to a report from 90min, West Ham are one of the clubs who are interested in bringing Smalling back to the Premier League, with Fulham, Everton and Leicester also said to be in the race for his signature.

That said, it currently seems unlikely that the defender will move in the summer, given his desire to stay at Roma, recently telling Sky Sports Italia: "I am very confident [about staying]...I have an option to renew for one year but I hope to stay for more seasons."

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The Verdict: Worth pursuing?

If the Englishman does not commit to a new deal to extend his stay in Rome beyond the end of the season, then he would be an excellent prospective addition to Moyes' side, and the West Ham boss will know his qualities well from their time working together at Manchester United.

The 6 foot 4 colossus was at his best in Roma's recent 2-0 Europa League triumph against RB Salzburg, winning all of his individual duels in a dominant display, while he also won an incredible 11 of the 12 aerial battles that he contested in the 1-0 win against Hellas Verona last weekend.

West Ham's defence looked solid in the 4-0 victory against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, but the 33-year-old Smalling - who has been dubbed 'outstanding' by journalist Josh Bunting - would still be worth signing on a two-year deal, as he is still putting in dominant performances at a high level.