West Ham’s relegation is already starting to create transfer opportunities for clubs around Europe. Porto are now being linked with a move for El Hadji Malick Diouf.
The 21-year-old left-back only arrived at the London club last summer. However, after the Hammers dropped into the Championship under Nuno Espírito Santo, there is growing expectation that several players could leave this summer.
Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã reports Porto are attentive to Diouf’s situation. They are prepared to move if conditions become favourable.
Meanwhile, Record adds that West Ham’s financial situation is playing a major role in the growing interest around the Senegal international.
The defender was signed from Slavia Prague for around £18.5m (€22m) a year ago. West Ham are now trying to recover that investment while reshaping the squad ahead of life in the Championship.
Porto see opportunity after relegation
Senegalese outlet Senego states Porto are actively positioning themselves for a summer move. The Portuguese side have Champions League football next season. Moreover, they are looking closely at the left-back market despite already having Francisco Moura and Zaidu Sanusi in the squad.
That situation could still change. Portuguese reports explain Porto are open to sales in that position, which would create room for a new arrival.
El Hadji Malick Diouf’s profile also fits what Porto usually look for in the market – young, athletic and with potential for future growth. The left-back made 34 appearances for West Ham this season and contributed five assists despite the club’s difficult campaign.
His attacking output remains one of the main attractions. Diouf averaged regular minutes under Nuno Espírito Santo and established himself quickly after arriving from Czech football.
What happens next
West Ham’s financial pressure is now becoming a central part of the story.
The reports from Portugal repeatedly stress the need for major sales after relegation. That is expected to impact several areas of the squad during the summer window.
Diouf still has four years left on his contract, so West Ham are not under pressure to accept a cut-price offer immediately. Even so, Porto appear to believe the current situation gives them a realistic opening to test the waters.
Also, Diouf has just been called up by Senegal for the 2026 World Cup, and strong performances there could easily increase both his value and the number of clubs following him this summer.