According to a recent report by the French news outlet, L’Equipe (translated by Manchester Evening News), Manchester United are ready to orchestrate a move to secure the signature of Issa Diop from West Ham United as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to rebuild his squad during this ongoing transfer window. The same source has mentioned that the Red Devils are preparing to make a bid for the Hammers defender in the coming days, but the player won’t push for a move to Old Trafford in this off-season.
Diop’s Impressive Debut Season In The English Top-Flight
Diop enjoyed a solid season with the East London outfit when he put in a series of commanding displays at the back under Manuel Pellegrini’s stewardship. The 22-year-old featured in 38 matches for the Hammers last season and has scored one goal for them across all competitions.
On the defensive end, the French centre-back made an average of 2.1 tackles, 1.9 interceptions and 4.7 clearances per game in the Premier League last season (Stats via whoscored).
The former Toulouse defensive ace made a slow start to his career in English football, but since the turn of the year, he has been a great asset for the Hammers and has formed a solid partnership with Fabian Balbuena and Angelo Ogbonna at the heart of Pellegrini’s backline.
What Will The French Centre-Half Bring To Old Trafford?
Diop is an outstanding defender at the back and usually finds a lot of joy when challenging for the ball in a 50-50 battle. He can make crucial interceptions for his team and is a physically dominant force in the air. However, he needs to distribute the ball more accurately if he wants to prove his worth at an elite club like Man United.
Diop’s Acquisition: Right Choice For Solskjaer?
The addition of a quality defender like Diop will undoubtedly bolster Solskjaer’s defensive options at the Theatre of Dreams. The French centre-back is precisely the type of player who can come in and improve the quality of the Red Devils defence significantly ahead of the new season.
The lack of Champions League experience won’t be a problem for Diop as Man United won’t be involved in Europe’s most prestigious cup competition next season. Thus, Diop fits the bill perfectly so Solskjaer should try everything in his power to bring the French talent to Manchester ahead of the new season.
