“Hammering a Statement: West Ham United Secure Sensational Signing of Senegal Star El Hadji Malick Diouf”…………..
West Ham United is delighted to announce the signing of Senegal international El Hadji Malick Diouf in a move that signals the club’s ambition for the upcoming season. The 22-year-old winger joins the Hammers on a five-year deal from French side Stade Rennais, for a reported fee of £18 million, subject to international clearance and a successful work permit application.
Highly rated for his electric pace, dribbling flair, and versatility across the front line, Diouf has been one of Africa’s standout young talents in recent years. The dynamic wide man played a key role in Senegal’s U23 Africa Cup of Nations victory in 2023 and has since earned six senior caps, impressing with his direct style and attacking instincts.
Born in Dakar, Diouf began his youth career at Génération Foot, the same Senegalese academy that produced Liverpool star Sadio Mané. His performances quickly caught the attention of scouts across Europe, and in 2021, he made the move to Rennes in Ligue 1. Over two seasons in France, Diouf made 41 appearances, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists, attracting interest from clubs in England, Spain, and Germany.
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui expressed his excitement about the new arrival, calling Diouf “a game-changer with huge potential.”
> “El Hadji is an explosive talent who can bring something different to our attack,” Lopetegui said. “He’s young, hungry, and ready to make the next step in his career. I believe our fans will love his energy and commitment on the pitch.”
Diouf, speaking exclusively to the club’s official media, shared his enthusiasm for joining the Premier League and representing the East London club.
> “This is a dream come true for me,” he said. “The Premier League is the best league in the world, and West Ham is a historic club with amazing fans. I can’t wait to show what I can do and help the team achieve great things.”
The deal marks West Ham’s third signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Brazilian midfielder André Trindade and English defender Jacob Greaves. With the departure of winger Saïd Benrahma earlier this summer, Diouf is expected to compete for a starting spot on the flanks alongside Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus.
Club technical director Tim Steidten praised Diouf’s character and determination during the negotiation process.
> “We have tracked El Hadji for over a year and are delighted to bring him to London Stadium,” Steidten said. “He’s not just a fantastic footballer, but also a professional with the right mentality to thrive in the Premier League.”
Diouf is expected to join his new teammates in the coming days and could feature in West Ham’s pre-season friendly against Real Betis next weekend. His debut in the Premier League could come when the Hammers open their 2025/26 campaign away to Wolverhampton Wanderers in early August.
The club will be unveiling Diouf officially at London Stadium this weekend, with fans invited to attend a meet-and-greet session and open training.
Welcome to East London, El Hadji Malick Diouf!
