Brentford are preparing to increase their offer for West Ham United star Diouf, talkSPORT understands.

The deal could be worth up to £40 million. Previously, Brentford's anonymous bid for the left-back was rejected, with West Ham United insisting he was not for sale.

Diouf was one of West Ham United's few bright spots last season, but the team was eventually relegated to the Championship.

The Senegal international had an excellent first Premier League season after joining from Slavia Prague for £22 million plus add-ons.

This has led to speculation about his departure this summer, with Manchester United expressing interest in him in April.

Brentford joined the race for Diouf in July and made an offer, but West Ham United made it clear at the time that they would not sell him, seemingly blocking his departure.

However, with only a few days left until the Championship opener against Burnley, West Ham United's resolve will be tested again.

It is understood that Brentford are prepared to make a deal worth up to £40 million to bring the 21-year-old to West London.

This would be another major signing for Keith Andrews' side this summer. Brentford have just broken their club transfer record by signing Mamadou Sangare from Lens.

Although the exact fee was not disclosed, Brentford stated that the signing has exceeded the £42.5 million paid for Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth in 2025.

If Diouf's deal is eventually completed, he will be among Brentford's highest transfer fees in history.

The Senegalese international could make an immediate return to the Premier League, and he would also be the second player to join Brentford after leaving West Ham United.

After his contract expired, Wilson also moved to West London, signing a one-year deal with Brentford.

If Diouf joins, Brentford will get much-needed reinforcement at left-back.

Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey can both play in this position, but both have been plagued by injuries in recent years.

Scotland international Hickey was sidelined for nearly two years with a hamstring problem, only returning to action last October.

Rico Henry is also currently out with a hamstring injury. He made 25 Premier League appearances for the team last season after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury.

In their absence, winger Lewis-Potter has filled in well, but if Diouf joins as expected, he may return to his familiar position.

West Ham United continue to lose players in the summer window

West Ham United may now lose another key player, despite previously insisting they would not sell Diouf.

Earlier this summer, Matheus Fernandes joined rivals Tottenham for £85 million, followed by Crecencio Summerville's £68 million move to Saudi club Al-Hilal.

West Ham United recouped £153 million from these two departures, which was initially thought to be enough to prevent them from needing to sell more players.

Highly sought-after captain Bowen has signed a new contract with the club, which is a major boost for a team preparing to challenge for promotion.

However, Nuno Espírito Santo's team suffered a new blow when academy graduate Freddie Potts moved to Belgian club Club Brugge for £10 million.

As West Ham United begin their new season against Burnley on Sunday, they may also be without Diouf at Turf Moor.

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