West Ham new ploy clear as details emerge on enticing Djaoui Cisse offer
West Ham’s midfield has not got off to the best start to the season after multiple changes in the transfer window.
James Ward-Prowse has continued to be selected by Graham Potter, despite coming under criticism for his lack of energy for the Hammers.
West Ham were too easy to break down in the 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace, and question marks remain over why another central midfielder wasn’t signed in the summer.
Rennes midfielder Djaoui Cisse was linked with a move, but the Irons ultimately elected to look elsewhere in their search for creativity in the middle of the park.
West Ham made £22million offer to sign Djaoui Cisse
Mateus Fernandes has made a difference at West Ham since joining for £38million from Championship side Southampton.
Fellow midfielder Soungoutou Magassa has struggled to bed in at the London Stadium since his £14million switch from Monaco.
However, there is the general feeling that the France international deserves an opportunity over some of the players who have been starting instead of him.
It has now been revealed that the Hammers attempted to bolster their midfield even more with the addition of Cisse.
- Cisse was called up for France Under-21s in the 2025 UEFA Under-21 Championship
- He signed a contract extension until 2029 with Rennes in July
- He signed his first professional contract with Rennes on 2 February 2024, at the age of just 17
According to Le 10 Sport on 23 September, the Hammers made what is described as an enticing initial £19million offer for Cisse, with £3million in potential add-ons.
However, Rennes rejected the offer and have been keen to build around the 18-year-old this season.
The attempted signing of the youngster is a clear indication that the Hammers are moving in a different direction when it comes to transfers.
- Read more: Tony Pulis shares ‘frightening’ reaction after what’s been said about Graham Potter at West Ham
West Ham focused on signing younger and hungrier players
The summer transfer window was a real mixed bag for the Hammers, with plenty of disappointment and jubilation.
West Ham’s ploy seems to be clear after the summer transfer window, with the side keen to attract young talent.
El Hadji Malick Diouf, 20, was joined by 21-year-olds Magassa and Fernandes in East London over the summer.
In recent seasons, the Hammers have had one of the oldest squads in the top flight and look to be changing that this season.
Last year, they signed Niclas Fullkrug, 32, who has shown that he is not up to the task of competing in the Premier League, and West Ham have been changing their approach.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest West Ham United news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @westhamzone247