Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Credit: Imago/West Ham United X

Chris Smith

Sun 3 August 2025 23:02, UK

West Ham capped off their Premier League Summer Series campaign with a 2-0 win over Bournemouth on Sunday and were given serious cause for optimism by one of their summer arrivals.

The Hammers are looking for a serious improvement after finishing 14th in the Premier League last season and have been busy in the market.

However, Diouf deserves huge credit for his stunning ball to Bowen at the back post.

MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES

The Hammers then doubled their advantage and sealed the game in the 67th minute through Bowen — who diverted home following another superb cross from Diouf.

While the goalscorer takes the glory, the assist did not go unnoticed on this occasion — nor did the Diouf-Bowen connection.

Diouf attempted four crosses throughout the match, finding his mark with three of them, while he was five for six on passes into the final third and won four of his five ground duels in an all-action showing that Bournemouth had no answer for (Flashscore).

Given his record of seven goals and four assists from wing-back for Slavia Prague last season, West Ham fans should hardly be surprised at the quality he’s shown so far.



Brownhill is a highly sought-after free agent (Credit Imago)

There could be even more cause for optimism at West Ham soon, following the news that they now lead the race to sign Josh Brownhill.

The 29-year-old captained Burnley to promotion with 100 points last season and was the Clarets’ star player, notching 18 goals and six assists in 42 Championship appearances.

However, Brownhill is now a free agent following the expiry of his Burnley contract, and despite interest from Celtic, West Ham would be a more attractive option — according to Football Insider transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke.

Burnley statsJosh BrownhillAppearances211Goals32Assists23Josh Brownhill’s Burnley career stats

“It will be a tough race to sign Josh Brownhill,” he said.

“He’s a top midfielder, scored 18 goals last season to help Burnley win promotion to the Premier League.

“If West Ham come in for Josh Brownhill, Celtic aren’t going to be able to match the offer financially.

West Ham are better placed for a deal.

“These Premier League clubs have far more money than the biggest Scottish clubs.

“Celtic will be hoping the allure of Champions League football can give them the edge, but there will be fierce competition for that free transfer.

“He’s one of the better free transfers available at the moment, with his experience of the Premier League and he’s a goalscoring midfielder who most teams would love.

“West Ham are interested, and I think there’s interest from abroad and also MLS clubs having a look at Josh Brownhill as well.

“If Celtic are looking to build on the progress they made in the Champions League last season, he would be a very smart addition to Brendan Rodgers’ side.

“But there is a lot of competition for him as a free agent, which could make it difficult for Celtic.”

Related Posts


For more news relating to West Ham, visit our sister site WHU Latest Live.