West Ham show interest in Red Bull Salzburg midfielder Mamady Diambou | OneFootball

West Ham have ‘expressed interest’ in Red Bull Salzburg defensive midfielder Mamady Diambou, according to Africa Foot.

The Hammers are monitoring the 22-year-old Malian international closely as they assess potential reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window.

The West Ham target has been with Salzburg since 2021, impressing and attracting interest across Europe following a string of impressive performances in Austria.

Diambou has battled back from injury to re-establish himself as a key player, making 12 appearances in all competitions this season.

He has European experience in the UEFA Champions League and has already won two Austrian Bundesliga titles and a domestic cup since joining from FC Guidars in Bamako.

Slavia Prague are believed to be leading the chase for his signature, with the Czech champions eager to strengthen their midfield.

However, West Ham are among the clubs keeping tabs, alongside RC Lens and Royal Charleroi, who were previously in advanced talks during the summer.

Red Bull Salzburg are open to a sale and want €5 million to let the ‘incredibly exciting player’ leave.

For West Ham, Diambou is a technically sharp and physically robust holding midfield presence in the engine room.

West Ham’s interest makes plenty of sense.

Nuno Espirito Santo‘s side has lacked genuine athleticism and bite in the engine room this season, often struggling to control transitions and protect the back line.

Diambou could be the perfect remedy.

The Malian covers huge ground, breaks up attacks with intelligence, and brings a relentless energy that would complement the Hammers’ midfield options.

His blend of discipline and dynamism could give West Ham the balance they’ve been missing in key areas.

Whether the Hammers decide to push hard for his signature in January remains to be seen.

Still, Diambou looks like a player built for the intensity and physical demands of Premier League football.