Manchester United could make a move for West Ham centre-back Issa Diop this summer as he appears to be a cheaper alternative.
This season, the French defender has struggled for regular playing time at West Ham, and he may be searching for a new challenge in the summer. Diop was a regular starter for the club during his first two seasons but has slipped down the pecking order in the last 18 months.
Manchester United had previously made contact with the defender, according to Foot Mercato, and current manager Ralf Rangnick was keeping watch of his progress when managing in Germany.
United reportedly chose Harry Maguire over Diop and given the England international’s dismal form, they may be searching for a fresh signing to reinforce the defence.
Diop, who is only 25, still has a long career ahead of him, but if he does not begin playing regular football, he risks having his progress halted.
With his contract set to expire next summer, Manchester United may try to re-sign the defender, especially with Rangnick on board as a consultant. Both the club and Rangnick have expressed interest in the past, so there’s a high chance they’ll come back to it.
Erik ten Hag was just named the club’s manager, and he frequently deploys a left-footed centre-back in his back four. Many modern managers use this strategy because it allows them to feel more at ease upon acquiring possession.
Due to the fact that Maguire, Raphael Varane, Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, and Diop are all right-footed, Ten Hag may want to sign a left-sided defender in the summer.
