Credit: Imago

Max Wilkins

Wed 18 March 2026 9:10, UK

Mohamadou Kante could benefit if Tomas Soucek gets his wish and leaves West Ham United.

The Frenchman has been a bit-part player this campaign, but has still managed to show some positive flashes under Nuno Espirito Santo.

His minutes have largely been limited to the FA Cup, while more senior options have been preferred for the Premier League.

That isn’t a surprise with the Hammers firmly in a relegation battle and in need of their best players to step up and prove themselves.

What they don’t need is someone like Soucek opening themselves up to an exit, even if it could be music to the ears of Kante moving forward.

Tomas Soucek eyes West Ham exit

The Czech international has been a stalwart in claret and blue ever since joining on an initial loan deal all the way back in January 2020.

Plenty has happened since then, with the Conference League title win being an obvious high point of his Irons spell.

He has always cut a committed figure, and footage of him kissing the badge from earlier this season only proves his love for the club further.

That makes a Tuesday report from talkSPORT all the more surprising, as it has been suggested that Soucek is open to a new challenge ahead of next season.

He could depart even if West Ham remains in the Premier League in a departure that could represent a blow in East London.

Although the potential exit of the 31-year-old may raise alarm bells for many, it could prove to be the news Kante has been waiting to hear.

Kante could be handed starting role under Nuno Espirito Santo

There are certainly pros and cons to the Czech star departing East London, with his experience certainly representing a plus point.

It can also be said that a changing of the guard may be needed at the London Stadium, and Kante could lead that forward from the middle of the park.

He has already made nine appearances for the Irons since his move from Paris, but that could step up should his midfield teammate move on in the summer.

One of his best came in the FA Cup against Burton Albion, as showcased by Sofascore, and that could act as the perfect kickstarter for the Frenchman.

The 20-year-old holds similar physical attributes to Soucek and certainly has room to grow into the role if he is given the chance.

It would certainly be interesting to see if he could make the step up, and if he could, Kante may prove to be a massive asset in E20.