Everton pursue left back El Hadji Malick Diouf from West Ham

Everton are working to sign 21-year-old left back El Hadji Malick Diouf from West Ham United ahead of next season, according to reports.

The Senegalese defender impressed in a relatively successful debut campaign in England, earning praise for his performances despite West Ham’s relegation to the Championship after finishing 18th in the Premier League.

Diouf joined West Ham from Slavia Prague last summer for £19 million and has a contract until summer 2030. Most indicators suggest he will remain in the Premier League next season despite West Ham’s drop, with Everton now leading the chase.

The transfer is described as difficult due to strong competition. Chelsea showed interest in March, and The Guardian recently named Manchester United as a possible destination.

West Ham hope to make a profit on Diouf after paying the release clause, while Everton are pushing hard to secure him in this summer’s transfer window. The young left back previously played for Norwegian club Tromsö IL before his move to Europe.