El Hadji Malick Diouf says he does not plan a long future at West Ham, despite making a strong start to life in the Premier League.
The Senegalese left-back, who arrived in the summer for €22 million, already has 12 appearances and three assists for the London club.
He joined West Ham as one of their standout signings and made an immediate impact.
However, Diouf also speaks openly about ambitions that reach far beyond the London Stadium.
In an interview with The West Ham Way, the 20-year-old says he intends to push for a move to one of the world’s top five clubs when the time comes.
He stresses ambition, patience and hard work as the driving forces behind his long-term vision.
He says he intends to reach the highest level, and he believes he has the potential to achieve it.
He adds that he has played professional football for only two years, so he keeps calm and stays patient as he works towards that goal.
His comments create concern at West Ham, especially as the club hopes to build a stable long-term project in the Premier League.
The Hammers recognise his value and know that interest from Europe’s elite may grow if he continues to perform.
Diouf says he currently plays in the league of his dreams, although he maintains the ambition to rise higher in the future.
The former Slavia Prague defender remains under contract with West Ham until 2030.
His current market value stands at €25 million, and he earns an annual salary of €2,060,924.
West Ham now prepares for the possibility of renewed transfer interest, while Diouf focuses on his development and maintains the confidence that his future will take him to the very top.
