West Ham learn Souffian El Karouani fate as free transfer agreement reached
West Ham are set to miss out on the free transfer of Souffian El Karouani, with the Moroccan agreeing to a move to Al Qadsiah.
Nuno Espirito Santo will be looking to keep the Irons in the Premier League, but work on scouting signings for next season will already be underway.
El Karouani had emerged as an option for the Hammers in the last few weeks, with the 25-year-old’s Utrecht contract set to expire in the summer.
However, the E20 outfit appears to be too late to the table, with the left-back reportedly moving to the Middle East.
That is according to Africa Foot, who have spoken to a source close to Saudi Arabian club Al Qadsiah.
West Ham to miss out on Souffian El Karouani – here’s why it is a blow
El Hadji Malick Diouf has been an excellent signing for West Ham this season, but his performances have also put his future into doubt.
The Senegalese defender has been attracting interest, which will come as no surprise to the Irons fanbase, who he has been impressing this season.
Diouf has been decisive in the final third, picking up five assists throughout the Premier League season.
El Karouni, who has been even more productive, would have been a highly suitable replacement based on his 16 assists in all competitions.
The Moroccan is now Saudi Arabia-bound, as per Africa Foot, who say a definitive agreement has been reached with management for a free transfer.
It is certainly a blow for the Hammers, who may now need to locate another suitable Diouf replacement in the event he exits the club.
West Ham have every reason to ask for high Malick Diouf fee
If Diouf is to be of interest to top European sides, then the Hammers must request a sizeable fee that provides them with a hefty profit on the price they paid.
In an ideal world, West Ham will keep Diouf for next season and longer, but that possibility will likely depend on their status as a Premier League club.
At the moment, the 21-year-old is contracted to West Ham until 2030, so David Sullivan certainly holds all the leverage over the future of the fullback.
If West Ham stay up and they look to bounce out of the relegation candidacy next season, Diouf will be a vital player for that goal.
However, the Lucas Paqueta situation has shown that if a player truly wants to exit London Stadium, West Ham will not stand in their way.
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