Liverpool defender wanted by West Ham United

Liverpool centre-back Nathaniel Phillips has emerged as a January transfer target for West Ham United, Football Insider claims.

The 24-year-old has been a squad player for the Reds, but he played a key role for them during the backend of last season.

With injuries to Joel Matip, Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk, Phillips starred for the Reds as they clinched the fourth position.

Despite his impressive showing, he has fallen out-of-favour again. He has been restricted to just one appearance in the League Cup.

Phillips is assessing his options ahead of the New Year, and it is reported that the Hammers are preparing to lodge a bid to sign him.

David Moyes' side recently suffered a big blow with a serious knee for Angelo Ogbonna, and they will seek to fill the void this winter.

Phillips is one of the top names on their radar alongside James Tarkowski of Burnley whose contract expires at the end of the campaign.