Various sources are reporting (the Mirror) that Manchester United are set to come in hard for West Ham United’s defensive ace Issa Diop. Reports mention that the Manchester giants are planning a £45m raid on the 21-year-old defender who joined the London based club just last season only. However, reports from the Mirror conveys that the Hammers will resist any offers for the defender and they are adamant that he is not up for sale.
Diop was signed for £22.5m just last season only, and West Ham can reportedly earn double of what they paid for him. However, they are not in for a quick profit as the French defender established himself as the mainstay at the back for his side.
The Hammers just about managed to finish in the top half last season, and they would be looking to kick on from here onwards under their influential Chilean manager. Diop made 38 appearances at the back in all competitions last season and managed to score two goals as well.
Even though it was Diop’s first season in the Premier League, the Frenchman was able to cope with the physicality and pace of the division. It is understandable why the Hammers have taken such a stance as Diop is still just 21 and he has a tremendous amount of potential in him.
What makes Diop special?
The defender’s reading of the game, his physical strength and his exceptional timing of tackles make him a standout option for Pellegrini. To go with all that, he is at ease while playing out from the back as he is calm and composed in possession.
The Hammers really made a bargain signing last summer and Diop can be a leader at the back as well. At his previous club Toulouse, he was captaining them even though he was still 20.
How much should the Hammers demand if they want to sell him?
The Hammers should in no way look to sell him this summer. However, we feel that the club should slap a price tag of £70m on the defender and ask United to come and match their price. Given his age and ability, we feel that it would be the right valuation for Diop. The defender has his contract at the club until 2023, so Pellegrini and Co should be in a strong position to negotiate. The Red Devils are desperate to improve their defence for the next season, and the Hammers should continue with their firm stance on the player.
