West Ham United have completed the signing of highly-rated Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Diouf from Slavia Prague in a deal worth £19 million.
The 20-year-old joins the Hammers on a long-term contract and is expected to link up with his new teammates at the club’s pre-season training camp in Germany this week.
Diouf played a pivotal role in Slavia Prague’s title-winning campaign last season, helping the Czech giants secure the league crown with an impressive defensive record—conceding only 18 goals in 35 matches. He also contributed significantly in attack, scoring seven goals during the season.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Diouf expressed his excitement about joining the Premier League side.
“A lot of clubs were interested in signing me, but I chose West Ham because it was a good plan for me,” he said. “Everyone dreams of playing in the Premier League. I’m very happy to be here and I think we’ll have a great season together.”
West Ham manager Graham Potter welcomed the signing, describing Diouf as a versatile and driven player who adds value to the squad.
“Malick is young, hungry and ambitious. He’s someone we’ve been monitoring for a while and we believe he’ll be a very positive addition to the group,” Potter said.
Capable of playing as a left-back or left wing-back, Diouf began his European football journey in February 2023 when he joined Norwegian side Tromsø from Senegal. He made 21 appearances and scored three goals before moving to Slavia Prague in early 2024, where he scored on his league debut against Karviná.
On the international stage, Diouf made his debut for Senegal in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Burundi in September 2024. He also featured in Senegal’s 3-1 victory over England in an international friendly played in June.
His move to the London Stadium marks another step in West Ham’s squad rebuild under Potter, as they look to compete more strongly in domestic and European competitions this coming season.
