West Ham United are on the brink of securing the services of Senegalese left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf, with Slavia Prague set to accept a €25 million offer—marking the most lucrative sale in the Czech club’s history.
The 20-year-old defender has rapidly become one of Africa’s brightest prospects following a breakout season with Slavia Prague and a successful debut with the Senegal national team.
Diouf made his senior international bow in September 2024, playing a key role in Senegal’s 1-0 win over Burundi.
His ascent has been nothing short of spectacular, attracting intense interest from several top European sides, particularly in the Premier League.
Diouf’s performances for Slavia Prague this past season have been exceptional.
Despite his primary role as a defender, he contributed an impressive nine goals and four assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.
His attacking output, combined with solid defensive displays, has made him one of the standout players in the Czech top flight.
A product of the Galaxy Foot Dakar Academy and the Mawade Wade Academy in Saint-Louis, Diouf had a short spell at Norwegian side Tromsø before moving to Prague.
It was in the Czech capital where his talents blossomed, earning him widespread recognition and ultimately catching the eye of West Ham’s scouting department.
Interest in the Medina-born star surged during the winter transfer window, but a move was put on hold as Diouf opted to remain with the Sešívaní.
Even a late-season ankle injury did little to dampen enthusiasm from suitors.
His dynamic style and potential for growth have been enough to convince West Ham to submit a substantial offer, which has reportedly met Slavia’s valuation.
The €25 million deal, once finalized, will set a new transfer record for Slavia Prague, underlining Diouf’s rise as one of the most sought-after young full-backs in European football.
His move to the Premier League now appears imminent, pending final negotiations and medical checks.
West Ham are expected to make the signing official in the coming days, as they continue to reinforce their squad ahead of the new campaign.
For Diouf, the transfer represents a major leap forward in his burgeoning career, placing him on one of football’s biggest stages just a year after his international debut.
