West Ham United Secure El Hadji Malick Diouf

West Ham United have officially announced the acquisition of Senegalese international El Hadji Malick Diouf from Slavia Prague. The transfer fee is reported to be £19 million, and Diouf has signed a long-term contract with the club.

Diouf was a member of the Senegal squad that achieved a 3-1 victory over England in a recent friendly, marking the first time an African team has defeated England in 22 matches. He also celebrated a Czech top-league title with Slavia Prague in the 2024-25 season.

The Senegalese defender expressed his enthusiasm about this significant step in his career, noting that he chose West Ham United despite interest from numerous other clubs and is optimistic for a successful season.

“I’m genuinely delighted to be here and to be progressing in my career. I am eager to start working hard and connecting with my new teammates,” Diouf stated.

“Many teams were interested in signing me, but I prioritized West Ham United. My conversations with the coach were very positive and aligned well with my goals.”

“I want to convey to the West Ham supporters how thrilled I am to join them. I anticipate that we will have a very successful season together this year.”

West Ham’s head coach, Graham Potter, commented that the club was in search of a youthful player, a need that Diouf fulfills.

“He is a young player we have been monitoring for a while, and we believe he can integrate seamlessly into the team we are building at the club.”

Diouf initially joined Tromso, a Norwegian team, in February 2023 at the age of 18, where he made 21 appearances and scored three goals. A year later, he moved to Slavia Prague, scoring in his debut match.

West Ham is scheduled to begin their 2025-26 Premier League journey on August 16 with a match against Sunderland.