West Ham’s Mohamadou Kante faces pivotal summer as Mali and Senegal battle for his allegiance

Mohamadou Kante’s future at international level is becoming increasingly prominent, with Mali reportedly moving ahead of Senegal in efforts to persuade the West Ham midfielder to represent them.

The 20-year-old defensive midfielder, who emerged as one of West Ham’s notable performers last season, is eligible to play for either country. Mali’s newly appointed head coach Anthony Da Silva is understood to be making a strong personal push to convince Kante to commit to the Eagles.

According to Malian journalist Drissa Traore, discussions between Kante and the Mali Football Federation have already progressed significantly. The federation is keen to complete the process quickly as it seeks to add the West Ham player to an already well-stocked midfield.

Kante could join a group that includes Amadou Haidara, Aliou Dieng, Yves Bissouma, Mohamed Camara and Mamadou Sangare. Senegal’s greater depth in the same position may also influence Kante’s decision, with Mali potentially offering him a clearer route into the national team.

Da Silva and former international Samba Sow, now the national team’s general manager, are also reported to have approached Soungoutou Magassa. The West Ham team-mate is likewise of Malian descent.

Kante’s rise has been rapid. After coming through at AS Jeunesse Aubervilliers, he joined Paris FC in 2021. He impressed for the club’s Under-19 side before progressing to the reserve team, performances which attracted the attention of West Ham.

The English club completed his signing in 2024. Just two seasons ago, Kante was still playing in the fifth tier of French football. He then made a striking leap forward and featured 19 times for West Ham’s first team last season.

Although the Hammers were relegated to the Championship, Kante’s performances enhanced his reputation. His ability to operate as a modern holding midfielder, combining ball recovery with the capacity to move forward and contribute in possession, has attracted interest from several clubs.

In France, Olympique de Marseille are among those monitoring his situation. Lyon and Monaco are also understood to have shown an interest in the midfielder.

West Ham tied Kante down to a long-term contract and are believed to be seeking about €20m if they are to allow him to leave. His profile is particularly appealing to Marseille as they look to add greater depth and physical presence to a midfield that still needs strengthening.

Kante’s next few months could therefore prove decisive on two fronts. He may be weighing up a move to an ambitious European club while also preparing to choose between Mali and Senegal at international level. With the Mali approach gathering momentum and his club future attracting attention, the summer is set to be a significant one for the young midfielder.