El Hadji Malick Diouf in action in 2025

West Ham agree deal for Diouf – Medical set as £20m defender nears switch

John William Last updated: Jul 13, 2025, 12:50 pm
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Image: IMAGO / CTK Photo

West Ham United have finally broken their summer silence in the transfer market by reaching a full agreement to sign Slavia Prague defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. After weeks of negotiation, the left-footed Senegalese star is set for a move to the London Stadium — with his medical scheduled early next week.

“We’ve respected Slavia’s position, but Malick’s desire to join West Ham helped unlock things.” — Club Source to Football Place

Diouf Set for Medical After Final Slavia Appearance

According to trusted journalist Santi Aouna, Diouf will play his final game for Slavia Prague on Sunday (13 July) before travelling to London for medical checks. The full-back, who was frozen out of training in recent weeks amid mounting speculation, will bid farewell to fans and teammates after the match.

West Ham’s persistence has paid off, with reports suggesting an improved offer in the region of £20 million has finally convinced Slavia to sell. The initial £17.25m bid was rejected earlier this month.

Who Is El Hadji Malick Diouf?

The 20-year-old Senegal international has impressed in the Czech First League with his pace, defensive intelligence, and ability to progress the ball from deep. A key figure in Slavia’s recent domestic success, Diouf is tipped to be a long-term solution at left-back for West Ham — especially with ongoing uncertainty around Aaron Cresswell’s future.

Stat (2024/25) El Hadji Malick Diouf
Games Played 41
Goals 3
Assists 6
Successful Tackles 87
Key Passes 29

What This Means for West Ham

This signing brings much-needed momentum after Mohammed Kudus’ £55m exit to Tottenham. While Diouf may not offer the instant headline value of a Kudus, he adds athleticism and potential in a vital area. He’s also expected to fit seamlessly into Graham Potter’s system.

“Diouf is ready to start Premier League football right now. This isn’t a signing for tomorrow — it’s for now.” — Analyst Verdict

Key Insights

  • West Ham agree £20m deal for Diouf after rejected opening bid
  • Defender to undergo medical next week after Slavia farewell
  • Graham Potter targets Diouf as first major rebuild piece
  • Kudus exit leaves pressure on board to back manager
  • Diouf stats show promise: 3 goals, 6 assists, 87 tackles in 24/25

What’s Next?

West Ham are expected to pursue at least two more first-team signings — likely in central midfield and up front. With the Diouf deal near completion, attention will now shift to adding Premier League experience further up the pitch.


Is Diouf the right fit for West Ham’s new era under Potter?

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