West Ham United are now targeting a move for Marseille attacker Bamba Dieng – who has been likened to Liverpool star Sadio Mane.
That’s according to The Mirror (05/01, p53), who claim that West Ham are leading the race to sign Dieng this month.
It’s claimed that Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are both keen on signing Dieng, as are Newcastle United.
The report notes that Dieng has been likened to Mane, with the pair set to feature together for Senegal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
That’s a big comparison given Mane’s star status at Liverpool, but it just goes to show Dieng’s potential.
Dieng is allegedly seen as a player who can make a big impact in the Premier League despite his relative inexperience.
Dieng, 21, has only played 26 league games for Marseille, but has hit four goals in 14 league outings this season.
Quick, tricky and capable of playing up front or out wide, Dieng is an exciting and versatile attacking threat.
West Ham certainly need another striker to support Michail Antonio up top, and Dieng could now be an option.
Dieng’s Africa Cup of Nations commitments are a concern, but West Ham would be looking to the long term here.
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