Chelsea and Liverpool Make Contact Over Diouf

Chelsea and Liverpool have reportedly made contact over Brentford defender El Hadji Malick Diouf. Senegalese outlet D Sports claims both Premier League sides want a left-back next year and have identified the 21-year-old as a leading option.

The report suggests Diouf may leave Brentford after the 2026/27 season, setting up a potentially busy summer around his future.

Diouf’s Brentford Struggles

Diouf joined Brentford from West Ham United this summer in a £35million deal after a strong debut campaign at the London Stadium. He made 34 appearances in all competitions, contributing five assists.

However, Keane Lewis-Potter remains Brentford’s first-choice left-back, restricting Diouf to just 154 minutes across five Premier League outings. His market value has not dipped as a result.

Do Chelsea and Liverpool Need Him?

Chelsea explored a move in the summer, but nothing materialised. With Xabi Alonso already holding two left-backs, including new arrival Pep Chavarria, and Marco Palestra able to cover the left flank, centre-back and central midfield appear greater priorities.

Liverpool’s case looks stronger. Kostas Tsimikas is not seen as a dependable understudy to Milos Kerkez, who has been inconsistent since joining from Bournemouth. An attack-minded full-back like Diouf could suit Anfield.

Our Take

Brentford’s position is unclear, and they are unlikely to sell cheaply after such a heavy investment. Even so, the lure of a big club could tempt Diouf. In my view, Liverpool look the more logical destination, while Chelsea’s interest feels speculative.