West Ham United are now expected to sanction El Hadji Malick Diouf’s departure, with the club’s stance appearing to soften significantly as Brentford prepare a package worth up to £40million.
Earlier on Monday, ReadWestHam reported that Brentford were preparing an improved offer for Diouf, despite the Hammers previously appearing determined to keep the 21-year-old. The proposed package is understood to be worth £35m guaranteed plus a further £5m in add-ons.
There has now been a significant development in the El Hadji Malick Diouf West Ham transfer situation.
El Hadji Malick Diouf West Ham transfer stance changes
Claret & Hugh report that West Ham are giving serious consideration to allowing Diouf to join Brentford, with a club transfer source expecting the move to happen.
When asked whether Nuno Espírito Santo and recruitment director Nils Koppen were prepared to sanction the deal, the source said: “Yes, I think it will happen. I think he’ll go to Brentford, but others are interested.”
That represents a notable change from West Ham’s previous position. Brentford had already seen an approach rejected, with the Hammers initially reluctant to lose a player who was among their better performers during last season’s relegation campaign.
Diouf only arrived from Slavia Prague last summer and is still just 21, but an offer approaching £40m would give West Ham the opportunity to make a substantial profit after a single season.
The concern for Nuno would be replacing him so close to Sunday’s Championship opener against Burnley. Diouf offers natural width and attacking threat from the left, while another major departure would continue a dramatic summer of squad rebuilding at the London Stadium.
If Brentford now formalise their improved package at the level being reported, the latest indication is that West Ham may no longer stand in Diouf’s way.
