West Ham United have finally agreed a deal for El Hadji Malick Diouf, in a long saga that has kept fans waiting. This transfer should give Hammers hope as they attempt to finish higher than last season’s lowly 14th place. Some are sceptical over Graham Potter’s ability to do this, though his track record should instil some confidence in his critics.
West Ham Agree Deal for El Hadji Malick Diouf After Long Negotiations
Bid Improved By Hammers
Fabrizio Romano has given his famous “Here We Go” for this deal, meaning that only a medical is left to be completed before the transfer is confirmed. Santi Aouna reports that he will undergo this next week; Diouf played his last match with Slavia Prague today (July 13) against Dynamo Dresden.
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The Hammers have finally coughed up the ~£20 million fee that Slavia Prague were asking for, with there now being a “deal agreed”. The delay in paying this had left fans “frustrated” with the hierarchy for not simply doing this previously. There are also add-ons on top of this flat fee.
West Ham Weak at Left-Back
Signing a left-back will certainly strengthen the squad, with it being somewhat of a problem position for West Ham. Last season, their two options were 35-year-old Aaron Cresswell and 30-year-old Emerson, neither of whom particularly lit the world on fire. Neither player was diabolical, though both were somewhat unspectacular.
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This led to youngster Oliver Scarles often playing a role, particularly as a wing-back or even as a wide-midfielder in a back-three system. However, as the Hammers look to push on, the 19-year-old cannot be relied upon. Signing the “extraordinary” 20-year-old Diouf could be the perfect move, as the two youthful players can push each other to their best.