Report: West Ham closing in on deal with Czech club
West Ham United are increasingly confident of securing the services of highly rated Senegal international El Hadji Malick Diouf following clear signs from Slavia Prague that a deal is imminent.
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Slavia manager Jindrich Trpisovsky confirmed what many in the Czech capital had already suspected, revealing that Diouf's departure is no longer a question of 'if' but 'when'. Speaking to the media, Trpisovsky said, 'The situation surrounding El Hadji Malick Diouf? It's always the same. We're all thinking about a transfer.' He continued, 'It's a matter of time. The club's management is taking care of it. Malick has an individual plan, we don't want to take any risks.'
Diouf, who recently impressed on international duty as Senegal beat England 3-1, is believed to be attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, with West Ham and Leeds United currently at the front of the queue.
West Ham's long-standing relationship with Slavia Prague
The Hammers have a proven track record of dealing with Slavia Prague, having previously signed both Tomas Soucek and Vladimir Coufal from the Czech club. That history may prove crucial once again as negotiations progress over what could become a record-breaking transfer.
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Slavia Prague are reportedly demanding a fee in excess of the £12.5million they received from Tottenham for goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky. That figure currently stands as the club's highest-ever sale, but Diouf is now poised to eclipse it.
Trpisovsky was full of praise for the player, highlighting not only his technical qualities but also his long-term potential: 'He's a player with extraordinary qualities, and he will have them for the future. Slavia's demands must be met, but we believe he will leave.'
With left-back Aaron Cresswell now gone and Graham Potter keen to bolster his defensive options, Diouf's versatility adds to his appeal. He is comfortable playing as a left-back or as a winger on the same side, a trait that could provide Potter with additional tactical flexibility next season.
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Leeds interest could test West Ham resolve
While West Ham remain confident of striking a deal, they are not alone in their admiration for Diouf. Leeds United, now pushing for promotion under new management, are believed to have expressed serious interest in the player. However, the lure of top-flight football and West Ham's European ambitions could prove decisive.
It is also understood that Diouf's camp prefers a move to a Premier League club with a stable project and a clear development pathway. Graham Potter, known for his work with young talent, may offer the ideal environment for Diouf to continue his rise.
Although no fee has been finalised, all signs now point to a summer exit for Diouf. With both Slavia Prague and the player aligned on his departure, it is a matter of days, not weeks, before this potential transfer reaches its final stages.
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Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a West Ham fan's perspective, this development feels timely and progressive. El Hadji Malick Diouf looks like the sort of player who could quickly become a fan favourite. He brings energy, flair and composure on the ball, not to mention the kind of versatility that gives managers flexibility during a long season.
With Cresswell moving on, there is a clear vacancy at left-back, and Diouf offers more than just defensive cover. His ability to drive forward and contribute in the final third is something West Ham have lacked from wide defensive areas. Seven goals and four assists last season for a player in that position is significant, even if it came in a different league.
The fact that Slavia Prague are preparing for life without him, and that he is training separately from the squad, adds real weight to the likelihood of his exit. If West Ham can move quickly and decisively, they have every chance of securing another successful addition from a club they already know how to deal with.
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Fans will also be encouraged by the club's continued interest in young, high-upside players with international experience. It suggests a shift towards a more sustainable recruitment strategy and a greater focus on player development, something many supporters have long called for.
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