West Ham are reportedly addressing their midfield issues with a transfer raid on France.
The Hammers have been severely lacking in athleticism and drive this season, with the centre of the pitch looking static at times. As a result, it’s rumoured that Tim Steidten has lined up several potential targets to bring energy to the West Ham midfield, with Andy Diouf among the names suggested.
Irons scouts were reportedly present at Lens’ Conference League game against Panathinaikos in August to observe the Frenchman, who joined Lens for £13 million from Swiss club Basel in the summer of 2023.
Diouf has performed well this season at RC lens where he has bloomed under the guidance of Hammers fan Will Still with the club in 8th position in Ligue 1.
The 21-year-old is a big physical presence, drawing comparisons to Aston Villa and former Everton midfielder Amadou Onana. However, if West Ham step up their interest in the French U23 international, they could face stiff competition from Spurs and Crystal Palace, who are also monitoring the player.
Irrespective of whether the Irons follow up interest in Diouf, it remains clear that something has to be added to Tomas Soucek, Guido Rodriguez and Edson Alvarez, all of who lack the midfield mobility the team so desperately needs.
