Wolverhampton Wanderers have reportedly reignited their interest in West Ham United defender Craig Dawson.
During the summer transfer window, Wolves made an attempt to sign the Englishman and looked on course to do so on deadline day.
However, having failed to sign a replacement for the centre-back, West Ham made the decision to retain the services of the 32-year-old.
Since then, Dawson has been a regular in the Hammers XI, making a total of 11 starts and two substitute appearances in all competitions.
Up until recently, Dawson had started six games in succession without West Ham registering a win, but Dawson completed the full 90 minutes as David Moyes's side earned a 1-0 victory at Brentford in the FA Cup on Saturday evening.
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As a result of Dawson continuing to be a regular in the side, whether it is a back three or four, Moyes may insist that he remains at the London Stadium for the rest of the season.
Wolves and West Ham are also direct rivals in the Premier League and square off at Molineux as soon as January 14, it theoretically making little sense in the latter giving the green light to a sale for the time being.
Nevertheless, according to the Daily Mail, Wolves are still admirers of Dawson and are interested in completing a deal.
New head coach Julen Lopetegui is known to be in the market for a fresh face in defence with only Nathan Collins, Max Kilman and Toti Gomes regarded as senior options for the middle of the backline.
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The Spaniard would allegedly like to add proven Premier League experience to his squad, as well as players who are in the region of 30 years of age.
Although Dawson is older than that specific criteria, Wolves' current options are 21, 25 and 23 respectively, highlighting the desire for more seniority.
Dawson has less than six months remaining on his contract, but Moyes may determine that his influence in the dressing room is worth risking losing the player on a free transfer in the summer.
Wolves and West Ham have also each been linked with a move for Stoke City's Harry Souttar, something which could prove to be a factor in any discussions for Dawson.
Darren Plant
