By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
Diouf staying interests me far more
Whilst the wider footballing world seems to be fixated on West Ham’s sale of Mateus Fernandes to either Tottenham or Manchester United, I find the news surrounding another key player far more interesting.
As revealed by Claret & Hugh earlier today, Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf is looking increasingly likely to remain at the London Stadium next season.
I have, at times, been critical of Diouf during last season, but I never lost sight of the fact that when he joined the Hammers he was a 20-year-old international with a lot to learn. In terms of raw talent, I believe he is an excellent acquisition with huge potential. But that’s exactly what one would expect from a £20 million signing from the Czech league.
A season in the Championship could be ideal
There are still obvious flaws in his defending, particularly one-on-one situations when he is slowed down by an opposition winger and is unable to accelerate again. But those are flaws which can be ironed out with coaching and experience, which is why I think a season in the Championship will do him the world of good.
Blessed with good physicality, an excellent engine and a brilliant crossing ability, the Senegalese left-back would comfortably be one of the best full-backs in the EFL, if not the best.
It was only really when Diouf started being linked with Champions League clubs that I became unconvinced. Talk of Real Madrid and Manchester United felt far too premature. It’s also worth noting that Diouf hadn’t developed sufficiently to justify his value doubling. No doubt West Ham would get their money back on the transfer fee paid to Slavia Prague, but surely that’s not the point of buying footballers with potential.
Patience could pay off
In short, he’s not good enough to hold down a regular place for any of the world’s top teams at the moment, but he’s more than good enough to play and star in the Championship.
Finish the season as a better defender, register assists in double figures and chip in with a couple of goals. Then, if West Ham secure promotion, another season in the Premier League and the Hammers could really have a superstar defender on their hands.
At that point, he’d still only be 23 and would likely command a significantly higher transfer fee.
Scarles is better defensively and I’d like to see him given a proper run of games. I’m not sure how much Diouf was affected by the links to Man U and others and if he sees us as where he wants to be for a few seasons, if we’re promoted. If he wants to go or isn’t committed, I’d be OK selling at the right price, with a sell-on clause. We’ve also got Mayers who looked solid on the left.
I agree Gomzo :
However can you guys look into the talk sport article about Bowen to Villa . Don’t want to loose him. Can I ask , can you chat to sources and post an article about it . Thanks guys ⚒