Reports from Portugal suggest that Arsenal have initiated discussions to acquire Sporting CP’s center-back, Ousmane Diomande
20-year-old Ousmane Diomande, who was signed from FC Midtjylland for €12.5 million (£11m) just over a year ago, has quickly made his mark at Sporting CP in Portugal.
His contract includes a 20% sell-on clause for Midtjylland and an €80 million (£68.5m) release clause.
Arsenal and Chelsea battle for Diamonde
Chelsea has reportedly shown interest in Diomande, indicating their willingness to offer €60 million (£51.4m) for his signature, as per Record.
TheMirror states that Arsenal has intensified their pursuit of Ousmane Diomande, engaging in discussions with both the Portuguese club and the player himself regarding a potential summer transfer.
The report suggests that Arsenal has signaled their willingness to match Chelsea’s €60 million (£51.4m) offer, with the possibility of additional bonuses increasing the total amount.
Other European clubs are keeping tabs on Diamonde
In addition to Arsenal’s interest, Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Bayern Munich have also been linked with a potential move for Ousmane Diomande, the Ivory Coast international. Diomande has prior experience playing against Premier League teams, having faced Arsenal in two Europa League matches last season.
Reports from last summer suggested that Arsenal had a €35 million (£30m) bid for Diomande rejected, but the Gunners remained committed to making another offer at the end of the season.
Sporting CP struggling to keep Gyokeres
Sporting CP is facing difficulties in retaining their prolific striker, Viktor Gyokeres, who has scored an impressive 36 goals in 39 appearances this season.
Chelsea made a significant bid of £73 million for the Sweden international during the January transfer window, which Sporting rejected.
The Portuguese club is holding firm on their stance, demanding a transfer fee closer to Gyokeres’s €100 million (£85.7m) release clause before considering a potential departure for the 25-year-old forward.
