Despite a difficult campaign in the Premier League, West Ham made a shrewd acquisition last summer in El Hadji Malick Diouf.
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The 2025 AFCON winner has been a key performer, notching four Premier League assists — joint-most for a defender — thanks to blistering runs down the left and pinpoint deliveries into the box.
Now, the Hammers are reportedly targeting a player in a similar mould to bolster their squad further this summer.
West Ham ‘Eager’ to Sign Souffian El Karouani
Souffian El Karouani of FC Utrecht. (Marcel Bonte/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Souffian El Karouani of FC Utrecht. (Marcel Bonte/Soccrates/Getty Images)
West Ham United are among several clubs tracking Souffian El Karouani of FC Utrecht, according to Africa Foot.
The 24-year-old left-back has less than six months remaining on his contract and is unlikely to extend, making him an attractive option for clubs across Europe.
El Karouani previously described West Ham as a “great club,” though no move materialised during the January window.
With his contract situation, the Hammers are “eager to secure a strategic signing” and could act on him this summer. Leeds United are also reportedly in the mix.
El Karouani in “No Hurry”
Sources close to the Moroccan international reveal he has been informed of interest from West Ham, Leeds United, Fenerbahçe, Beşiktaş, VfL Wolfsburg, and FC Porto.
Among these, Africa Foot note that West Ham and Leeds appear the “most serious” contenders.
His entourage has stressed that El Karouani is in no rush: “Souffian is in no hurry. He will wait for the summer transfer window to calmly analyse the offers and choose the most suitable project for the next stage of his career.”
This season, the left-back has operated exclusively in his preferred role, contributing three goals and an eye-catching 16 assists in 38 matches for Utrecht.
El Karouani could either provide a long-term backup for Diouf or even step into a starting role if the Senegalese star departs — either in the event of relegation or due to other suitors being attracted by his performances.