West Ham United have been backed to reignite their previous transfer interest in Rennes defender Arthur Theate. 

The Lowdown: West Ham's previous interest in Theate

The Hammers were linked with a move for the Belgian during the summer transfer window, at which time he reportedly had a €18m (£15m) price tag put on him.

The east London club did manage to bring in a new centre-back over the summer in the shape of Nayef Aguerd, who has seen an ankle injury keep him out of action for most of the season so far.

However, it now appears that the Premier League outfit could turn their attention to Theate once again.

The Latest: West Ham to reignite Theate interest?

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, French football journalist Robin Bairner said that, while he doesn't expect any movement in January, West Ham could try for the 22-year-old next summer.

He predicted: "Whether it’s quite the time to take a chance on him, I would be a little bit surprised. This is a move that I would expect to see develop over the course of the season. I wouldn’t imagine it will happen in January, but potentially next summer. They could revisit it then."

The Verdict: West Ham should consider it

This season has seen the 22-year-old centre-back play every minute of all but one of Rennes' games across all competitions, showcasing how important he is for the club.

In terms of his ability on the pitch, Theate has made more clearances (40) in Ligue 1 this season than any other player at Roazhon Park.

Described as an "aggressive" player by Italian football expert Conor Clancy, the Belgian could be a smart prospective acquisition for West Ham given his age and the fact that the Irons have two centre-backs in Craig Dawson and Angelo Ogbonna who are set to see their contracts expire in the summer.

If the opportunity arises for West Ham to sign the Rennes defender in next summer's transfer window, they should do their best to try and secure his signature.