Liverpool and Chelsea have reportedly made contact with the representatives of Brentford and Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf, with both clubs considering a move for the 21-year-old in 2027.

The two Premier League top-five clubs are said to view left-back as an area requiring improvement, particularly in terms of quality rather than squad depth. Their new managers have plenty to be pleased about, but neither side is considered to have an unquestioned first-choice option in that position.

Liverpool currently have Milos Kerkez and Kostas Tsimikas available, while Chelsea’s options include Marco Palestra, Jorrel Hato and Pep Chavarria. According to Senegalese outlet D Sports, Diouf has emerged as a preferred target for both clubs.

D Sports reports that initial contact has already been made with the player’s representatives to assess the possibility of a future transfer. The interest is understood to be linked to Diouf’s limited involvement in the Premier League since joining Brentford from West Ham this summer.

The Senegal international signed for 48 million euros but has started only one league match. He has also made four appearances from the bench in the Premier League, while starting two further matches in the League Cup.

Diouf’s contract with Brentford runs until at least 2031, meaning the club’s hierarchy would be expected to reject any approach. He arrived believing he would be a regular starter, but Keane Lewis-Potter has established himself in the position since the beginning of the season.

The former West Ham player is known for his physical presence, work-rate and ability to deliver crosses. However, Brentford are understood to have recruited him as part of a long-term plan and are unlikely to be rushed into a sale, even if Lewis-Potter continues to perform well.

Brentford are aiming to secure the first European qualification in the club’s history. Diouf is expected to receive more opportunities as the season progresses, particularly if the Bees remain in contention for a top-eight finish.

If Brentford finish among the Premier League’s top eight, potential suitors are unlikely to have a realistic chance of persuading the club to sell its “Lion of Teranga”. The club has a reputation for making carefully considered decisions in the transfer market and is not believed to have signed Diouf without a clear long-term strategy.

Diouf has been included in Patrick Vieira’s Senegal squad for the double-header against Sudan in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. He is also expected to take on greater responsibility for his country following Ismail Jakobs’ retirement from international football.