Diouf became a regular on West Ham’s left flank after arriving from Slavia Prague last year, and Brentford now appear to be edging towards a deal that could bring him across London. The proposed package could rise to £40m, comprising an initial £35m plus add-ons, although the move still needs the final paperwork before it can be treated as complete.
- Brentford appear to have an agreement in principle for Diouf, with documents still to be signed.
- The proposed package is worth up to £40m, comprising an initial £35m plus add-ons.
- Diouf made 32 Premier League appearances for West Ham last season, starting 30 matches and supplying five assists.
El Hadji Malick Diouf’s West Ham Situation
El Hadji Malick Diouf remains a West Ham player for now, but his standing over the past year helps explain why Brentford are pushing hard to bring him in. He featured heavily in the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, playing 32 matches, making 30 starts and clocking up 2,706 minutes, while providing five assists from the left flank.
That established him as a reliable option in his first season in London after joining from Slavia Prague. His involvement has been lighter at the start of the new campaign, limited to a brief cup appearance and a late substitute outing in the league. He was then left out of the squad for West Ham’s next match, adding context as to why an exit could now be on the cards if the paperwork is completed.
Brentford reach verbal agreement to sign El Hadji Malick Diouf from West Ham at £40m package, here we go!
Documents yet to be signed but deal agreed in principle at £35m fix plus add-ons.
Diouf keen on Brentford project. Deal in place.
Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano)
26 August 2026
Brentford’s Left-Sided Squad Needs
Brentford’s interest is understandable given the left side of their squad. Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey have both endured injury-hit spells, while Keane Lewis-Potter has spent much of the past two seasons filling in deeper than his natural attacking role.
Diouf’s numbers from last season help explain Brentford’s move. His five Premier League assists point to the kind of crossing and chance creation Brentford would be adding, while securing another option on that flank could also free up Lewis-Potter to spend more time further forward.
Diouf’s Future and West Ham’s Plans
West Ham’s relegation to the Championship makes this potential sale more important in their summer planning. Losing a player who became a regular on the left after just one season would be a notable blow, while the deal could provide significant funds for rebuilding.
For Diouf, a move to Brentford looks like the logical next step after his rapid rise in importance at West Ham. The transfer would offer another Premier League opportunity while opening a new stage in his career.
