According to the print version L’Equipe (2nd January, p.6), via Football Fan Cast, West Ham defender Issa Diop could make a loan return to France as Nice hunt for his services.
The central defender is reportedly a target for the Ligue 1 outfit as they look to mount a challenge for a European place. Whilst Nice currently sit 12th in Ligue 1, the congested nature of the table leaves them well in the hunt to qualify for at least the Europa League.
Manager Adrian Ursea has racked up just one win in his five league games in charge since replacing Patrick Viera at the Allianz Riviera. His side have conceded seven goals, including six in their previous two fixtures.
Understandably, that has led to concerns over Nice’s defensive abilities, leading to Diop being identified as the potential painkiller to Ursea’s defensive headache.
The same report has mentioned a host of French central defenders as possible options alongside Diop. Barcelona figures Samuel Umtiti and Jean-Clair Todibo are named, along with Arsenal’s unregistered player William Saliba.
Evidently, homegrown French talent seems to dominate Ursea’s wish list, and Diop’s lack of regular game-time at the London Stadium is seen as an opportunity for Nice to exploit. The 23-year-old has made just four appearances for the Hammers this season.
Read West Ham Verdict
The Hammers will have to walk a thin line if a deal for Diop is agreed. A simple six-month loan which could guarantee him more senior game-time would seem a wise move but Moyes must avoid sanctioning any option to buy.
At just 23 years old, the £22m signing remains a young and attractive prospect among an otherwise ageing range of central defensive options in Moyes’ squad.
He could be the natural successor to several players at West Ham and may well have a key role to play at the London Stadium in the future if they resist any temptation to cash in on him now.
