Sky Sports News reporter Dharmesh Sheth has been discussing the latest news surrounding Issa Diop’s proposed move from West Ham.
The transfer insider was speaking on the Transfer Talk podcast amid reports that the centre-back is leaving the club this summer.
Sheth previously cast doubt over Diop’s future when he told GIVEMESPORT that the Frenchman could find himself ‘surplus to requirements’ should Nayef Aguerd arrive which has of course transpired.
It has prompted the newly-prompted Fulham to test the Hammers’ resolve for a player they paid a then club-record £22m for four years ago.
The Cottagers have saw an initial bid of £12m rejected with their east London counterparts holding out for £20m (Evening Standard) and Sheth has claimed that the clubs are still working on a compromise.
However, it remains to be seen as to what the situation is as there have been reports of him potentially staying now too.
(32:26)”There is still is a gap in the valuations between what Fulham are prepared to pay and what West Ham want.
“It’s no surprise that you know, West Ham may be prepared to allow him to leave.
“Fulham do want him but I think there’s still a little bit of work to get done before that one gets over the line.”
TIF Thoughts on Diop and West Ham…
Is £20m too much to ask for Diop?
Yes
No
It is clear that the Irons are hoping to recoup as much of the transfer fee they forked out for the 25-year-old which he hasn’t been able to repay but given his lack of involvement recently it is perhaps naive to think that a club would be willing to meet that price.
Diop made 65 league appearances in his first two seasons but since David Moyes’ first full season back in charge in 2020/21 his playing time has been halved and quartered.
He came under scrutiny for a ‘shocking’ display in the side’s 3-1 FA Cup exit at the hands of Southampton in February.
Although Angelo Ogbonna and Craig Dawson are entering the twilight years of their respective careers it does seem as if Diop is the centre-back that is expendable but they may have to lower their asking price to find a potential suitor.