Issa Diop: What does the future hold for West Ham’s enigmatic centre-back?

Add as preferred source on Google

Issa Diop was a real hit in the Premier League after joining West Ham from Toulouse for around £25 million in the summer of 2018 (The Express).

Read also: Big boost for West Ham as report claims Moyes target wants PL move above anything else

The 24-year-old’s form has been poor over the past 18 months or so, however.

So what does the future hold for the Hammers centre-back?

Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Salvatore Cantone recently claimed that Diop is actually a transfer target for AC Milan this summer.

So there is a chance that he will leave the London Stadium.

David Moyes cannot afford to sell many players this summer, however. The Scot’s squad is stretched to the limit as it is.

So we think that Diop is odds on to stay at West Ham.

Issa Diop: What does the future hold?

The 24-year-old has all the talent in the world.

He was once hailed as a monster by Jose Mourinho, who congratulated the person responsible for bringing him to West Ham.

Diop clearly has a problem with concentration, however, and his positional sense is very poor to say the least. Nothing that can’t be sorted out with some good coaching, however.

There is an argument that the former Toulouse man would be better suited to the defensive midfield role.

He is tall, gangly, has bundles of energy and is tenacious in the tackle. His ability to carry the ball from deep is something that has really stood out when he has played at centre-back for the Hammers.

Diop has all the making of a top class central defensive midfielder.

Read also: West Ham ace named one of 11 PL revelations from last season by famous French website

With West Ham’s lack of options at centre-back, however, it is likely that Moyes will stick with him there next season. It’s a very big campaign for Diop next term.

The 24-year-old has a lot to prove. Perhaps next season will be his time to shine. We’re rooting for Diop. He’s certainly got the talent. Whether he’s got the mental fortitude as well, however, remains to be see.