Chelsea have reportedly taken the lead in the chase for 19-year-old defender Ousmane Diomande, with Arsenal and Manchester City also keen.
According to Fichajes, Mauricio Pochettino could urge Chelsea to make a move for Ousmane Diomande and beat rival competition for the defender. The 19-year-old Sporting CP star has impressed in. a short span at the Portuguese club, with Arsenal and Manchester City also keen on the Ivorian.
Sporting CP took the gamble last January to sign Ousmane Diomande for a modest fee of €7.5 million from Danish side FC Midtjylland. The move has paid off in a big way, as the 19-year-old has thoroughly impressed in a short span of 24 games with the club.
Following his performances against Arsenal in last season’s Europa League, the Gunners have shown an interest. A few reports stated the North Londoners went as far as making a €35 million offer in the summer, which Sporting CP rejected out of hand.
Arsenal maintain an interest, with Mikel Arteta particularly keen to add the 19-year-old Ivorian to his ranks. His versatility at the back makes him an exciting target, with the Spaniard particularly keen to bring such players to his squad.
Manchester City are ready to rival Arsenal in the chase for Diomande, as Pep Guardiola would like to invest in a young defender. The Sporting star could replace Kyle Walker in the long run, as he has the potential to play different roles in the systems at this club.
Rivalling the two giants are Chelsea, who view Diomande as a successor to Thiago Silva in their backline. The Blues have splashed considerably on new defenders over the last 18 months but would like to bring the 19-year-old as part of their project.
Mauricio Pochettino reportedly likes the player and has asked Chelsea to tie up a deal in the next window or around the summer. They have scouted Diomande recently and have liked his profile, which would enhance this progressive backline at Stamford Bridge.
Pochettino dreams of having Diomande and Levi Colwill as part of his defence for the coming years. As per the report, Chelsea are already ahead in the race and could beat competition from their Premier League rivals for the 19-year-old defender.
The report also states Diomande might cost around €50 million, but Sporting are protected by an €80 million release clause in his contract. They are also planning on extending his deal by one more year to 2028 and would demand a premium in January. However, his price could drop to that €50 million mark around the summer window, which is when English clubs will likely target a move.
