West Ham are on the brink of securing the capture of Toulouse centre back and captain Issa Diop with a trip to London to seal a deal coming over the coming days, according to L’Equipe.
The reputable French publication claim that the Hammers have agreed a fee of £21.8million (€25million) for the Ligue 1 side’s defensive commander, and that the 6’3″ giant (source: Transfermarkt) is set to put pen to paper on a deal which will see him commit to the club for the next five years.
It is said that the Irons have beaten the likes of Sevilla to the 21-year-old’s capture, and that he could head to the English capital after the weekend to get a deal done.
Good move for West Ham?
The east London outfit are desperately in need of some reinforcements at the heart of defence with weaknesses clear as day, and it appears as though Diop is the man they have chosen to fill the gaping holes at the back.
The French youngster is an absolute colossus and has proven not only his physical ability but his leadership qualities, becoming his club’s captain despite his young age.
Making that step up from the French top flight to the Premier League has not been easy for everyone who has made the switch, but Diop has age on his side and will be able to grow into his role if and when he joins.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It seems as though West Ham have got this deal all but done, and that the final thing to do is get his signature on a contract and a medical out of the way.
Of course, nothing is ever simple in football but this is a move the Irons fans can start to get excited about, although they might want to hold off getting his name on the back of their shirts.
This is Futbol rating: 8.5/10