Report: West Ham make audacious enquiry for Manchester United star Anthony Martial during Issa Diop negotiations

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According to a report by The Independent, West Ham have made a cheeky enquiry for Anthony Martial. Manchester United have been trying to sign Issa Diop and West Ham will not do business without Martial in exchange.

During negotiations over Man United’s move for Diop, West Ham’s chiefs have stated that Martial is the player they want. But Man United do not want to sell Martial at this point in time.

Manchester United want Issa Diop

Man United need to strengthen their back line. With Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, Eric Bailly and Marcos Rojo all struggling, the centre-back department is a priority for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Red Devils have scoured the market for a new central defender. And this has put Diop on their summer wishlist. According to Sky Sports News, Man United are willing to pay £45 plus a player for Diop.

West Ham have told Man United that their 22-year-old French defender is not for sale. He enjoyed an impressive season after joining from Toulouse and West Ham want him to stay.

However, it appears that there is one bargaining tool Man United could use. If they are prepared to let Martial head in the other direction, West Ham will co-operate with their Diop request.

Who is Anthony Martial?

Martial is considered to be one of the most talented young attackers in Europe. But his time at Manchester United has been up and down, partly due to Jose Mourinho’s stubbornness.

Last season, the France international bagged 12 goals and provided three assists. And this took his total tally to 48 goals and 29 assists for Man United.

Martial predominantly operates on the left-wing but he is comfortable on either flank or as a striker. He has pace, skill and an eye for goal, making him a deadly threat when he is on form.

Whether Man United would let him leave is one question. Whether Martial would want to join West Ham is another. And his wages would represent a major problem.

This deal may be extremely unlikely but at least it shows one thing. West Ham’s hierarchy is not prepared to be bullied by Man United over Diop this summer.