Issa Diop: Morocco defender linked with Ipswich move from Fulham

Morocco and France defender Issa Diop is being linked with a move from Fulham to Premier League rivals Ipswich Town as the Suffolk club explore options to strengthen at centre-back.

Diop, 29, is under contract at Craven Cottage until 30 June 2027, so any deal would require Ipswich to negotiate a fee with Fulham rather than pursue a free transfer. The centre-back currently has a market valuation of about €8m, a figure that is likely to shape any talks between the clubs.

The former France Under-19 European champion joined Fulham from West Ham United in August 2022 for €17.8m and has since added significant Premier League experience to Marco Silva’s squad. Across his time in England’s top flight he has made 173 appearances, scoring eight goals and providing two assists, underlining his status as an established defender at this level.

Diop’s standing has been further enhanced by an impressive 2026 World Cup campaign with Morocco, where he started the majority of matches and made five appearances, scoring once and featuring heavily in minutes played. His international performances have contributed to renewed interest in his situation ahead of the new domestic season.

Born in Toulouse and standing at 1.94m, the right-footed centre-back has previously commanded substantial fees, having left Toulouse for West Ham in a €25m deal before his move to Fulham. For now, he remains part of Fulham’s plans, with two years left on his contract and no agreement yet in place over a transfer.