Manchester United have added West Ham United defender El Hadji Malick Diouf to their list of potential summer transfer targets, according to a report from The Guardian. The 21-year-old Senegal international, who has impressed in his debut Premier League season, is being considered as an option to provide cover and competition for Luke Shaw at left-back.
With Champions League football likely at Old Trafford next season, United are planning to strengthen their squad depth across several positions. Shaw has been a consistent starter this campaign, but the club is seeking a reliable deputy given the increased fixture load and the expected departure of Tyrell Malacia. The report notes that United have also been linked with other left-back options including Arsenal's Myles Lewis-Skelly and Fulham's Antonee Robinson.
El Hadji Malick Diouf has emerged as a notable prospect during West Ham's difficult season, contributing five assists in 28 league appearances from his defensive role. His performances have reportedly attracted attention from several clubs, with United now among his suitors. West Ham are understood to be aware of the interest, but a decision on the player's future is not expected until the end of the season, with the Hammers still embroiled in a relegation battle alongside Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest.
The potential move could hinge on West Ham's fate. Should the London club suffer relegation to the Championship, they may be more open to considering significant offers for their assets. Diouf's attacking output from the flank, particularly his crossing ability, is seen as a valuable asset that could benefit United's forward line, including striker Benjamin Sesko.
While defensive reinforcement is on the agenda, the report clarifies that United's primary focus for the upcoming window remains the central midfield area. The club plans to sign two new midfielders following the confirmed departure of Casemiro and the expected sale of Manuel Ugarte. High-profile targets such as Nottingham Forest's Elliot Anderson, though complicated by a substantial asking price and competition from Manchester City, underscore the priority of that position. Other midfielders linked include Brighton's Carlos Baleba, Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, and Bournemouth's Alex Scott.
In addition to midfield and full-back, United are also in the market for a new left winger. The club's interest spans a range of profiles, from established stars like AC Milan's Rafael Leao to emerging talents such as Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers. The pursuit of Diouf represents a more targeted, pragmatic piece of business aimed at addressing a specific need for squad depth, contrasting with the marquee ambitions in other areas of the pitch.
