Diafra Sakho Set to Leave Metz for West Ham in €4.5 Million Move
Metz coach Albert Cartier has confirmed that striker Diafra Sakho will not be part of the club’s squad this season as he prepares for a transfer to West Ham United.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Cartier revealed that Sakho was absent from training because he was undergoing a medical examination in London ahead of his proposed move to the English Premier League side. The 25-year-old Senegalese forward, who was named Ligue 2’s best player in the 2013-2014 season, still had one year remaining on his contract with Metz.
“Diafra Sakho will no longer be at Metz this season,” Cartier said. “He was in London for his medical, and we expect the transfer to be completed soon.”
Sakho joined Metz in 2009 and quickly established himself as a key player for the Lorraine-based club. His performances have drawn interest from several clubs, but it is West Ham who have emerged as front runners to secure his signature. The English club are reported to have offered €4.5 million for the striker.
Cartier was supportive of the move, acknowledging that it represents a significant step forward in Sakho’s career. “It’s good for him,” the coach added. “I didn’t oppose his departure. The English Premier League is a championship that suits him, and I believe he will do well there.”
West Ham’s interest in Sakho became clear after scouting the striker in Metz’s pre-season friendlies against Reims and Evian, where his performances impressed the English club’s staff.
The transfer marks a significant loss for Metz ahead of their Ligue 1 campaign, which kicks off this weekend against Lille (LOSC). Sakho’s goal-scoring prowess will be missed, but the club will look to adapt as they face the challenges of France’s top tier.
The striker’s departure also highlights the growing trend of talented players using Ligue 2 as a stepping stone to the Premier League, attracted by the higher profile and competitiveness of English football.
Sakho’s move to West Ham is expected to be finalised in the coming days, pending the usual formalities. He is likely to be a key figure for the Hammers as they prepare for the new Premier League season.
