Looks like we have yet another strong transfer link.

Thats right… West Ham United have registered a strong interest in signing French defensive midfielder Soungoutou Magassa from AS Monaco, according to ExWHUEmployee on The West Ham Way Patreon.

A Shift in Strategy: From Strasbourg to Monaco

Initially, West Ham had been tracking Strasbourg’s Ismael Doukoure, but Chelsea’s influence over the French club has complicated that pursuit.

As a result, the Hammers have turned their attention to alternative options — and Magassa has swiftly risen to the top of their shortlist.

The twenty-one-year-old offers precisely the kind of versatility and potential Graham Potter is known to admire. While Doukoure was seen as a high-upside option, Magassa brings comparable promise, along with greater first-team experience at a higher level in Ligue 1.

Who is Soungoutou Magassa?

Born in Stains, France, Magassa is a 6’2″ (1.88m) ball-winning midfielder who has emerged as a key figure for Monaco.

Since making his debut in January 2022, he has gone on to make over 50 appearances in all competitions — including 40 in Ligue 1 — while also featuring for France at U20, U21, and Olympic levels.

Magassa came through Monaco’s prestigious youth academy and signed a contract extension in April 2023, a sign of how highly he is valued by the club.

Style of Play and Tactical Fit

Magassa’s flexibility is a major asset. He can operate as a defensive midfielder in a double pivot or slot into a back three as a left-sided centre-back. Under Adi Hütter at Monaco, he often played as part of a 3-4-3 system — either anchoring midfield or stepping into central defence.

Technically sound and comfortable under pressure, Magassa excels at breaking up play, distributing short passes, and pressing high.

He’s a strong tackler with a good sense of positioning and is particularly effective in 1v1 defensive duels. His passing range and composure in possession would make him a natural fit in Potter’s possession-based system.

Strengths

• Versatility: Equally capable in midfield or defence.

• Physicality: Strong frame combined with surprising agility.

• Ball-winning: Aggressive in duels and effective at breaking up attacks.

• Composure: Rare calmness for a young player, especially when under pressure.

• Experience: Over 50 senior appearances and international exposure at youth level.

Areas for Development

Despite his strengths, Magassa is still a developing player. His decision-making when to commit to challenges and his aerial presence are areas that can be improved with coaching and time.

That said, his raw attributes suggest a high ceiling.

What This Means for West Ham

Targeting a player like Magassa shows West Ham’s intent to move smartly in the market — investing in youth, versatility, and players who fit Graham Potter’s tactical approach.

The club is reportedly also exploring further links with Monaco, suggesting this could be the first of several approaches.

For a squad in need of depth and dynamism, especially in defensive midfield, Magassa could be a statement signing. His profile is tailor-made for modern systems, and if developed correctly, he could become a long-term fixture in the side.

Final Thoughts

West Ham may be facing hurdles in the market, particularly with Chelsea’s influence blocking certain avenues, but the pursuit of Magassa shows the club isn’t afraid to pivot and act decisively. It’s a move that would not only strengthen the squad but also align with a longer-term recruitment strategy.