Sunderland have joined Brentford in the race to sign West Ham United‘s El Hadji Malick Diouf this summer.
The Senegal international joined West Ham from Slavia Prague in July 2025 and made 35 appearances in his debut season. He’s on the move again following the Hammers’ relegation to the Championship.
In May, Sport Witness relayed news of FC Porto interest in the left-back. He now has an opportunity to continue in the Premier League by joining Sunderland or Brentford.
Sunderland threat for Brentford
DSports in Senegal report the Black Cats and Keith Andrews’ side made advances to sign the 21-year-old.
Brentford initially submitted a bid, without mention of a figure, and this wasn’t enough to convince West Ham United.
The Bees aren’t giving up just yet, however, they have to be wary of Sunderland. The two clubs could battle it out for his signature.
El Hadji Malick Diouf has a contract until 2030, and Transfermarkt value him at €28m. West Ham are asking £50m [€58.5m] but there’s belief around £40-45m [€46.8-52.7m] would be enough to convince the Hammers.
Sunderland’s bid, new attempt from Brentford
West Ham United rejecting the bid hasn’t put off Brentford, who are preparing a new offer of up to €46m. It’s unclear whether that’s enough to convince Nuno Espírito Santo’s side.
Brentford have to compete with the Black Cats to sign the Senegalese defender. The latter recently allowed Arthur Masuaku to complete a permanent move to Turkish side Konyaspor.
Reinildo Mandava is now the only left-back at the Stadium of Light. Régis Le Bris’ side have qualified for Europe, and this would make it vital to sign Masuaku’s replacement. This is where El Hadji Malick comes into the picture.
DSports state Sunderland have submitted a proposal [no figure mentioned]. West Ham consider it too low and have turned down the bid. It’s unclear whether the Black Cats, like Brentford, are ready to return with an improved offer.
Despite Sunderland’s interest, Brentford are determined to secure Diouf’s services this summer.
