According to journalist Jack Rosser of The Evening Standard (via Twitter), there has been a twist in West Ham's hunt for a new centre-back as GSB go back into talks over a possible deal for Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma.

The Lowdown: Zouma talks flounder...

Soon after the Hammers entered negotiations for Zouma, as backed by Sky Sports, the move seemed to be all but over after the defender reportedly refused to join them (The Guardian).

This propelled GSB and West Ham to prioritise a move for Fiorentina powerhouse Nikola Milenkovic, and while Rosser backs that the club are now closing in on his services, he details a twist as Zouma also re-enters the frame.

The Latest: West Ham re-open Zouma talks...

As per The Evening Standard reporter, writing on Twitter, West Ham have 'gone back into talks' over Zouma to see if there is any way a move for him can be salvaged.

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Indeed, as also explained in his piece, 'tentative negotiations' have re-emerged over the 26-year-old despite his transfer to east London collapsing earlier this window.

As GSB eye a move for the Premier League colossus, it is also claimed that West Ham are 'hopeful of a breakthrough this week' in regards to Milenkovic.

The Verdict: Hopeful update?

Depending on developments, West Ham could add very capable defensive additions in either Milenkovic or Zouma - but the latter man certainly stands out as a target worth the trouble.

He averaged a very cool and composed 90.9% pass accuracy out from the back over 2020/2021 domestically, more than any West Ham regular by comparison, whilst even proving to be a threat going forward with five goals in that time (WhoScored).

Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan is certainly one of his many admirers, explaining to Football Insider how Zouma is 'very big, powerful, strong, quick and a threat in the air'.

As West Ham re-open talks in a summer transfer twist, there is reason to believe he would be a brilliant signing if there is hope of salvaging a move.

In other news: 'Yessss', 'Incredible', 'We are blessed'...West Ham fans flock to official club announcement, find out more here.