According to the latest reports from the Mirror, Manchester United are looking to make a move for West Ham United’s 21-year-old defender Issa Diop and they are valuing him at £45m. Ole Gunnar Solskjær is said to be keen on solving his side’s defensive issues, and the French defender was a standout performer for the Hammers last season.
West Ham signed him just last season only from Ligue 1 outfit Toulouse for £22.5m. The London based outfit are adamant that the defender is not for sale, but United are set to test their resolve anyway by launching a bid. The Red Devils need major surgery to their squad, and they have been linked with plenty of names in the past few weeks.
Why Manchester United need a defender?
The defence is obviously the main area of concern for United as they conceded 54 goals last season in the Premier League which was the most for a side in the top nine. Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are way past their prime, and they have often been error and injury prone.
The Red Devils are also linked with the likes of Harry Maguire, Kalidou Koulibaly and Matthijs De Ligt, but the price tag and the fact that they cannot offer Champions League football is a significant turn off for the players looking to join the fallen Manchester giants.
Is Diop a good option for the Red Devils?
The 21-year-old came with a big reputation from Toulouse as at just 20; he was the captain of the Ligue 1 side. He didn’t do his reputation any harm in the Premier League as he settled in well under Manuel Pellegrini after the first few games. Often managers and fans are worried whether the incoming players would be able to cope with the physicality and tempo of the Premier League, but Diop seemed well adept at that.
Strength and physicality are the standout aspects of the French defender as he is robust in his challenges. He also showcased that he is a good reader of the game as he timed his challenges and tackles well. What makes him a top option is his on the ball abilities, as the Frenchman is calm and composed in the possession and can pass his way out of the back.
Worth the price?
The Hammers are in a strong position to negotiate here as they signed the player just last season only and Diop has his contract until 2023. The fact that he is so young we feel that he is definitely worth £45m. However, the Hammers are adamant about not selling the defender, and we think that United might have to go higher than £50m to lure him.
