Credit: Breaking Media/Manh Tung

Scott Mason

Mon 27 April 2026 10:10, UK

Youssouf Fofana could be back on West Ham United’s radar two seasons on from first registering interest.

Fofana was linked to the Hammers back in 2024, with Manchester United also among those chasing the midfielder at the time. However, he would ultimately make the move to AC Milan from AS Monaco.

Since then, it has not been smooth sailing for the Frenchman, with his future in Serie A put into question over recent weeks.

Fofana, who has earned 25 caps for the French national team, has fallen out of favour in Massimiliano Allegri’s plans at the San Siro.

It has now opened the door for a transfer to West Ham in the summer, with the E20 outfit’s name mentioned.

What has been said about West Ham’s interest in Youssouf Fofana?

West Ham are beginning to build a summer window shortlist, and you would expect two lists to be drawn up depending on which league they fall into.

If survival is secured, the Hammers could move back for a long-term target in AC Milan midfielder Fofana.

According to Tuttosport, Fofana could be on the move to the Premier League with West Ham named as a potential destination.

The Irons do face competition, with a return to Lique 1 also on the cards for the former AS Monaco defender.

West Ham looked to sign Fofana in 2024, and they may now have a second bite at the cherry. AC Milan are seeking £26million for the midfielder, with the Serie A club “intent on releasing” the Frenchman at the end of the season.

How would Youssouf Fofana adapt to Premier League football?

Over recent years we have seen players who have thrived in Ligue 1 translate into the Premier League quite well.

The physicality of the two leagues is very similar, and that allows for an easier transition. This season, players such as Rayan Cherki have hit the ground running.

However, West Ham will know all too well that this could be player-dependent. Midfield signing Soungoutou Magassa has been hit or miss so far.

But, if the Hammers were to have any doubts, they could be eased by what Cesc Fabregas once said about Fofana.

Speaking in 2024, amid the speculation of a move to Manchester United or West Ham, the Spaniard who played with him at Monaco stated: “I really like Fofana, and I think he fits very well with the Premier League style.”

The words of Fabregas, who knows what it takes to be a top-level Premier League midfielder, may ultimately ease any concerns the Irons have.

However, a move for the Frenchman, who was part of the 2022 France World Cup squad that finished runners-up, will depend on their Premier League status.