Manchester United target Diouf as Sesko-linked Mainoo deal runs to 2031

Manchester United are targeting West Ham left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf as sesko enters the club’s summer planning, while Kobbie Mainoo has signed a new contract until June 2031. The move leaves United weighing left-sided reinforcements against midfield work they expect to tackle first, with Luke Shaw still carrying a patchy injury record.

Mainoo’s new deal gives him a basic salary of about £120,000 a week and follows his first league start of the season in Manchester United’s 2-0 win over Manchester City on 17 January. He said: "Manchester United has always been my home – this special club means everything to my family. We can all feel the momentum building inside the club. I am determined to step up and play my role in helping Manchester United to regularly fight for major trophies."

Diouf on Manchester United shortlist

Diouf has emerged as a target after a promising first campaign in English football. Manchester United are weighing up a summer move for a left-back, and they want competition for Shaw. Diouf joined West Ham for €22m from Slavia Prague and recovered from a difficult start to become one of West Ham’s most important players. His defending improved in the second half of the campaign, while his crossing ability has added to his attacking threat.

At least one other leading Premier League club have also looked at Diouf. Manchester United’s other left-back options include Tyrell Malacia, Noussair Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot, while Patrick Dorgu can play in a more advanced role and compete for a place on the wing. Malacia has made two appearances this season.

Mainoo deal and midfield plan

Manchester United are expected to start with midfield and want two midfielders. Their shortlist includes Éderson, Sandro Tonali and Elliot Anderson, with Anderson also wanted by Manchester City. If money remains after that work, Manchester United may turn to the left flank or add a defensive player.

That order matters for the market around United’s squad. Mainoo’s extension locks in a 21-year-old midfielder for the long term, but United still have a clear recruitment gap on the left side and may have to decide whether to spend there after they move for midfield targets.

West Ham’s summer pressure

West Ham’s position gives Diouf added weight in the market. The club are two points above the relegation zone with four games remaining, and they posted losses of £104.2m for the year ending 31 May 2025. That leaves West Ham likely to need summer sales to improve their financial position, even though Diouf has become one of their most important players.

For United, the next step is whether midfield business comes first or whether the left side can be addressed in the same window. For West Ham, any offer for Diouf arrives against a backdrop of relegation pressure and financial strain, with the player’s value rising after the second half of the season and United’s search for cover behind Shaw still active.