Sullivan ‘surely saving face’ as West Ham given Diouf answer after £17m bid
West Ham are yet to sign a first-team player this summer, and a difficult transfer window is anticipated as they need to sell to buy.
Mohammed Kudus is the subject of interest from Tottenham, and could be allowed to leave in order to raise funds this summer.
West Ham need to recruit after letting several experienced players leave, including Vladimir Coufal and Aaron Cresswell.
In addition to a striker, a left-back is also needed, and West Ham have now made a bid for Slavia Prague defender El Hadji Malick Diouf.
West Ham bid for Diouf rejected
West Ham made a £17million offer to bring Diouf to the London Stadium, who has predominantly featured as a left-wing-back for Slavia Prague.
However, this bid was rejected, according to Fabrizio Romano via X (1 July), with Slavia valuing the 20-year-old higher, and several other clubs are reportedly interested.
| Stat | Diouf |
| Appearances | 50 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 4 |
Diouf was a key player for Slavia last season, making 41 appearances across all competitions, and he was vital going forward as he scored seven and provided assists.
While he would be a strong long-term addition to the squad, the nature of the offer from West Ham resembles a bigger problem under David Sullivan’s ownership.
Sullivan underbid for Diouf
West Ham’s bid for Diouf was clearly well below value, and was rejected instantly by Slavia as they are demanding a higher fee.
Many have been critical of Sullivan in the past, and fans will be annoyed again as it now appears that a familiar tactic has been used.
With fans frustrated at the lack of incomings, this bid for Diouf may have been made to simply show that West Ham have the intention to sign a new left-back, but with Sullivan aware that this bid was going to be rejected.
This may have been a face-saving tactic from Sullivan, but fans would now like to see an improved bid made quickly and signings through the door before pre-season starts.
Emerson Palmieri looks likely to leave this summer in addition to Cresswell, and another left-sided defender is now necessary.
Diouf may also be targeted if Graham Potter intends to switch to a back three, and he could be an excellent pickup for the position.
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