West Ham have enjoyed a busy start to the transfer window, already announcing three signings in Pablo Fornals, Roberto and David Martin. Yet, while the focus has been very much on incomings of late, the rumours surrounding a particular outgoing have been going on for a while.
The in question is a certain Issa Diop. Obviously, the Frenchman signed last summer in a £22m club record-breaking transfer and has truly shone since, earning praise from the likes of Alan Shearer in April (speaking on Match of the Day via HITC) as well as Jose Mourinho following the Hammers’ win over Manchester United in September.
Averaging 2.1 tackles, 1.9 clearances and 4.7 clearances per 90 mins (as per WhoScored), it’s fairly easy to see why he attracted such praise, as well as to why the rumours in regard to his future have emerged.
Several outlets, including Sky Sports, have reported of Manchester United’s interest. Additionally, France Football have reported that West Ham are holding out for £75m, which would be the same price that Liverpool paid for Virgil van Dijk.
While Diop does have age on his side, putting him in the same price range as a man labelled by pundits such as Paul Merson as the best defender in the world after just one season in England would perhaps be too much. Obviously, transfer valuations don’t always reflect the quality of player but no one has ever cost more than their asking price in that position, despite their greater stature or experience.
Frankly, the sort of fees being talked about suggest West Ham have really found themselves in a win-win situation. Either they exploit the gaping defensive fragility at United – who conceded 54 goals (the 10th most in the league) – and demand one of the highest fees for a defender of all time or they keep a brilliant young prospect.
An enviable situation to be in.
West Ham fans, are you content in the current situation with Diop? Keep the player or generate huge funds? Or would you rather the move was simply ruled out entirely? Comment below!
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