West Ham United are continuing talks over a new contract for centre-back Craig Dawson ‘behind the scenes’ at the London Stadium, with the Hammers eager to hang on to the experienced defender, according to journalist Paul Brown.

David Moyes has seen his side hit a positive patch of form in the Premier League in recent weeks and one of his most experienced stars has been a pivotal part of that.

What is the latest on Dawson?

According to The Athletic, West Ham accepted a £4 million offer from Wolverhampton Wanderers for the 32-year-old’s services during deadline day of the summer transfer window, with Dawson eager to return to the Midlands for personal reasons.

However, the report adds that the move was dependant on the Hammers being able to land a replacement and the deal was called off after the east Londoners missed out on a loan agreement for Southampton’s Jan Bednarek.

Dawson – who has previously been described as ‘quality’ by Michail Antonio - may well be the focus of more speculation come January, however, with his £52,000 per-week contract set to expire at the end of the season.

The player was reportedly frustrated that the move to Molineux fell through in the summer and West Ham may be willing to sanction his exit at the turn of the year.

However, it was also understood that West Ham were previously looking to tempt Dawson into signing a one-year extension in the capital.

What has Brown said on the situation?

Brown believes that talks over a new contract for Dawson will be going on behind the scenes at the London Stadium.

When asked about negotiations over a new deal, the journalist told GIVEMESPORT: “That is going on behind the scenes. I think Dawson knows he's well-respected and well-liked at West Ham. They don't particularly want him to go.”

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Should West Ham offer Dawson a new deal?

Dawson did not play a minute of football for the Hammers in the Premier League until their 2-0 victory over Wolves earlier this month.

But the former England under-21 international’s imperious display reminded everyone just how much he still has to offer, despite his age.

He then played again against Fulham, using his experience to outwit Andreas Pereira and earn a first-half penalty in east London.

The fact he wanted to leave in the summer should not be forgotten, however. While Dawson may be back on form at present, keeping a player around who does not want to be there is always a risk and has to be taken into account.

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