Wolverhampton Wanderers now have a ‘real chance’ of signing West Ham United centre-back Craig Dawson in the January transfer window, after pushing for his signature in the summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Bruno Lage has splashed more than £120 million on new recruits since the end of last season but will have the opportunity to strengthen further when business resumes in the new year.

What is the latest on Dawson?

The 32-year-old was understood to have been left ‘frustrated’ at the end of the summer window after a move to Molineux failed to materialise, although the Hammers could still sanction his move in January.

The deal depended on West Ham being able to sign a replacement but, after they lost out to Aston Villa for the services of Southampton’s Jan Bednarek, the plug was pulled on the deal.

West Ham are reportedly eager to persuade Dawson to sign a one-year extension at the London Stadium but, with the player eager to return to the Midlands, it could be a long shot.

His £52,000 per-week deal is set to expire at the end of the season and the former West Brom man could soon be free to pick his next move, meaning Lage may finally get his man.

What has O’Rourke said on a potential deal?

O’Rourke believes that Wolves remain in the market for a centre-back and will be on the lookout in January.

As a result, the journalist believes there is a real chance Dawson’s move to Wolves could be back on once the window reopens.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “I think Wolves, obviously, have a few issues defensively. They are still in the market for a centre-back so I think this one has got a real chance in January of possibly happening, as long as West Ham are able to bring in a replacement.”

Would Dawson be a good signing?

Wolves could certainly do with reinforcements at the back after bidding farewell to both Conor Coady and Willy Boly during the summer window.

Nathan Collins arrived from Burnley to partner Max Kilman but, with the Irishman now facing a three-match ban after seeing red against Manchester City, Wolves’ shortcomings at the back have been exposed.

Dawson may be 32, but he is a player who has only recently hit his peak, scoring four goals last season as he helped West Ham to the Europa League semi-finals.

In total, he has bagged 19 times in the Premier League. With Wolves only finding the net on three occasions this season, Dawson could prove to be an invaluable route to goal.