West Ham are in the hunt to sign Toulouse centre-back Issa Diop this summer, ahead of long-term admirers Tottenham and Arsenal, according to the Mirror.
The newspaper claimed in their live transfer blog on Saturday [06:29pm] that Arsenal, Monaco, Inter Milan and Barcelona are also interested in signing Diop, 21, this summer after a stellar season at Toulouse where he captained his hometown side, and the France Under-21s.
It is understood that the 6ft 4in (transfermarkt) colossus knows first team opportunities will be limited at places like the Nou Camp, and that has opened the door for West Ham to sign up the £20m-rated defender this summer.
Good move for West Ham?
Diop would be a fantastic addition by Manuel Pellegrini this summer if he can get the deal done ahead of some big European clubs.
The 21-year-old already has a wealth of top-flight experience at Toulouse and has gained vital skills by captaining the Ligue 1 club last season.
He has made 95 appearances across all competitions for Toulouse since making his debut, scoring six goals in the process.
The France Under-21 international is tall, powerful, good in the air and has shown in his leadership skills that he would be a real catch for any team who looks to sign him this summer.
Pellegrini is said to be a huge fan, and it’s no surprise at all.
This is Futbol rating 9/10
Likely to happen?
It’s still a long way from this deal being completed and it will no doubt depend on what other European clubs are interested in signing Diop this summer.
£20million is a lot of money for West Ham, but Pellegrini has to spend it on his defence after what was an appalling season for the club’s rearguard last time out.
It’s hard to say whether there are much legs to this one yet.
This is Futbol rating 3/10