In a recent Transfer Talk Q&A, Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has claimed that West Ham United could explore the possibility of cashing in on Issa Diop if they receive a big-money offer for him this summer. When asked about David Moyes’ transfer plans for the summer transfer window, Solhekol provided an update on Diop’s future and said (via Sky Sports), “I’m not sure he (Moyes) was totally convinced by Issa Diop to begin with and there are a few clubs who would be interested in taking him, but Diop’s form has improved and it would take big money for West Ham to sell.”
Diop’s Solid Spell At The London Stadium
Since arriving from Toulouse in the summer of 2018, the French defender has developed into a matured defender in English football after initially struggling to put in a run of solid performances at the heart of the Hammers backline. He has shown a few glimpses of his brilliance at the London Stadium this season, scoring three goals in 26 matches for the East London outfit across all competitions.
More importantly, Diop has averaged 1.0 tackles, 1.7 interceptions and 5.3 clearances per game in the Premier League which highlights his growing influence on the defensive end of the pitch (stats via whoscored). However, there is still a lot of room for improvement in his game so Moyes would be wise to retain his services at the English capital for the time being.
The 23-year-old has represented France at various youth levels but is yet to earn a senior cap for his country. However, that could change soon if he can somehow find a way to unlock his true potential in European football over the next few years.
What Are The French Centre-Back’s Best Attributes?
Diop is a moderately-paced centre-half who loves to sit deep and command his own penalty area with authority and conviction. He has made some vital interceptions and last-gasp clearances for his side this season. The Frenchman is also not shy about putting his body on the line to stop the opponent from having a clear shot at goal. He is slowly but surely maturing as a defender and has the ceiling to become a household name in European football someday.
Is Moyes Making The Correct Call By Cutting Diop Loose If He Receives A Big Offer For Him This Summer?
It could be a bit of a premature move for the Hammers if they decide to cash in on Diop this summer. However, whether or not it will be the right call for West Ham to part ways with their prized asset depends on the offers they receive for him (if any) this summer. Moyes currently has Fabian Balbuena, Angelo Ogbonna and Gonçalo Cardoso as his other centre-back options. So the ex-Everton head coach could potentially use the money generated from Diop’s sale to bring in a suitable replacement who will be good enough to make an immediate impact at the London Stadium.
All things considered, the East London giants should retain the French defender’s services for the long-run as his market value could skyrocket if he can find a run of consistency with his defensive performances for West Ham in the coming years.
