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West Ham United are set to join the race for Angers left-back Jacques Ekomie, according to Pete O’Rourke. The East London club are proactively identifying replacements in case they lose star defender El Hadji Malick Diouf, who has emerged as a top target for Brentford. Brentford are reportedly prepared to bid up to £40 million to bring Diouf back to the Premier League, which would leave the Hammers with significant funds to secure a high-quality left-back if required. Ekomie, who has earned praise in Ligue 1 for his 1v1 defensive prowess, fits West Ham’s revamped transfer strategy as they rebuild in the Championship. However, West Ham face stiff competition from Championship rivals Wrexham, who have reportedly submitted a £4.3m offer to test Angers’ resolve. German side Hamburg are also in the mix, aiming to lure the full-back to the 2. Bundesliga. Angers are open to doing business for the 23-year-old. Having signed the former Bordeaux defender on a free transfer in 2024, the French club see this as an opportunity to make a significant profit. Their willingness to negotiate gives West Ham a clear chance to make a move. While West Ham can no longer offer Premier League football to entice targets, their financial strength makes them an attractive destination in the Championship. Ekomie’s athleticism and consistency in France make him a strong fit for the gruelling demands of a Championship season, as West Ham target an immediate return to the Premier League. After a 2-2 draw against Burnley, Nuno Espirito Santo’s side lost 2-1 to Charlton Athletic on Saturday, leaving them with just one point from a possible six so far.