West Ham now lead Aston Villa in race for new Sadio Mane

West Ham United are currently aiming to recruit Marseille striker Bamba Dieng – who is likened to Liverpool’s Sadio Mane star.

That’s according to The Mirror (January 5, page 53), who thinks West Ham are leading the race for Dieng’s signature this month.

It is reported that Aston Villa and Crystal Palace are both interested in signing Dieng, as well as Newcastle United.

The report notes that Dieng is likened to Mane, with the pair set to play together for Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations.

It’s a big comparison to Mane’s star status at Liverpool, but it only shows Dieng’s potential.

Dieng is said to be a player who can make a big impact in the Premier League despite his inexperience.

Dieng, 21, has only played 26 games for Marseille, but has already scored four goals in 14 appearances this season.

Quick, slick and capable of playing on the flanks or on the wing, Dieng is a versatile and exciting attacking threat.

West Ham certainly need another striker to support Michail Antonio up front, and Dieng could now be an option.

Dieng’s Africa Cup of Nations commitments are a concern, but West Ham will aim for the long term here.

In other news, West Ham shares ‘fantastic’ star vision of his London Stadium future