West Ham won’t think twice as El Hadji Malick Diouf’s exit looks extremely likely
West Ham United star El Hadji Malick Diouf will most likely leave E20 this summer, regardless of whether relegation happens or not.
The Hammers could pinpoint several individuals for the mess they are in, but ultimately, it’s taken an overall poor effort to see them into this current position.
Diouf is one player who has had mixed performances, but his age and lack of Premier League experience have probably outweighed the positives with him.
The 21-year-old’s best moments have come when bombing down the left flank, but his defensive frailties have been exposed on several occasions.
However, Premier League sides have shown interest in Diouf, and West Ham are in no position to think twice about his sale.
🚨 WEST HAM TRANSFER HUB 🚨
Breaking news on active deals, incoming signings, summer fire sale, and David Sullivan priorities.
The definitive source for West Ham United recruitment news
West Ham may jump at chance to sell El Hadji Malick Diouf
West Ham signed Diouf for just under £20million last summer, and his price tag has surely increased after one season in the Premier League.
Manchester United have been reported to have interest in the wing-back, and the Hammers would make a profit from his sale if they are in the Championship or the Premier League.
| Area of game | Stats |
| Matches (starts) | 31 (29) |
| Assists | 5 |
| Duels won | 53% |
| Successful dribbles | 22 |
| Penalties conceded | 2 |
If West Ham remain in the top flight, they have a better chance of getting a higher fee for the Senegal international.
But one thing won’t change, and that will most likely be that they should be looking to sell the defender after seeing him play for one campaign.
Wayne Rooney previously called Diouf “naive” for playing a part in West Ham’s 3-0 loss to Brentford, showing slow reactions to clear the ball for the Bees’ second goal.
Though the defender will improve with time, he’s not what West Ham need right now and moving forward.
More leaders are required, and that’s why David Sullivan may not blink if an offer comes in for Diouf this summer.
Oli Scarles will get West Ham chance in Championship
West Ham need to raise around £100m in sales this summer if they are relegated, and Diouf would surely go for a fee in the region of £30m at the very least.
Nuno Espirito Santo‘s future is still unknown, but given that the head coach sees himself as an “elite” manager, it’s doubtful he will stay at the London Stadium if the drop happens.
Regardless, whoever is in charge will need to rebuild, and Sullivan will have a heavy emphasis on promoting the youth in the Championship.
Oli Scarles has looked slightly out of his depth when given game time this season, but a campaign in the second tier could help him go on to be a regular future starter for his boyhood club.
It also means that Diouf’s replacement wouldn’t cost a penny, as sometimes it feels like relegation is almost the best thing that can happen for the Hammers to start fresh and build a new era.