Transferred in July 2025 from Slavia Prague to West Ham United for an estimated fee of 22 million euros (14.4 billion FCFA), El Hadji Malick Diouf quickly justified the investment made by the Hammers. Despite the club’s 18th place in the league after 25 matchdays, the 21-year-old Senegalese international has emerged as one of the season’s standout players.
With 19 appearances, including 17 starts, and 4 assists to his name, the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations champion has shown remarkable consistency, earning praise from observers. His defensive stats highlight his impact: an average of 3.1 balls recovered, 1 interception, and 1.3 tackles per match, along with a duel win rate close to 49%.
Offensively, Diouf also makes a valuable contribution with 0.6 key passes per game and a pass success rate of 75%. His latest assist against Burnley places him among the top six assist providers in the Premier League. He shares this spot with recognized attacking midfielders like Youri Tielemans, Bruno Guimarães, Bernardo Silva, and Martin Ødegaard. Among defenders, only Lucas Digne, Marco Senesi, and Reece James have comparable numbers.
Contracted to West Ham until June 2030, Diouf could find himself in high demand during the upcoming summer transfer window. A potential relegation to the Championship would strengthen the likelihood of a departure. Several Premier League teams are closely monitoring his progress, including Liverpool FC, Chelsea FC, Crystal Palace FC, Brighton & Hove Albion FC, and Brentford FC. In Italy, Atalanta BC, already interested during the last transfer window, might also come back for him.
At just 21 years old, El Hadji Malick Diouf is establishing himself as one of the most attractive young talents on the market, with a value likely to rise further based on his performances and the Hammers’ sporting fate.
