Manchester United could be about to launch a major bid for West Ham defender Issa Diop. According to reliable club insider EXWHUEmployee on The West Ham Way podcast on Phoenix FM (Thursday 27th June), Man United could bid £65m plus offer a player for Diop.
Man United desperately want to sign a new central defender to improve their defence. Diop has been identified as a top target after an impressive first season in England.
The 22-year-old only joined West Ham from Toulouse last summer but he became a mainstay in Manuel Pellegrini’s side. But the Irons face a battle to keep Diop in East London amid growing interest from Man United.
There is talk that Man United will make a bid of £65m and offer a range of players to West Ham, EXWHUEmployee claims. This could test the club’s resolve as it would be a major profit on what was paid last summer.
£65m for Issa Diop: Cash in or keep?
The West Ham hierarchy face a dilemma. On the one hand, this is a lot of money. On the other hand, Diop is an integral part of Pellegrini’s plans and could be worth even more in the near future. There are good arguments on both sides.
West Ham paid a reported £26m (Daily Mail) for Diop last summer. By cashing in for £65m, West Ham would make a tidy profit on a player who was considered a risk when he joined.
The Hammers would also be gaining a player from Man United. It is unclear who that might be but this is a negotiating tool for West Ham to work with.
But selling Diop could be disruptive to the squad. And without a natural replacement, it would make West Ham’s summer transfer plans more difficult too. If Man United do firm up their interest, West Ham have a major decision to make.
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