Manchester City are all set to battle it out with Arsenal for the services of 19-year-old Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande.
According to a report by A Bola, Manchester City and Arsenal are both keen on having Ousmane Diomande in their ranks. The 19-year-old defender has been in sensational form of late, and both the English clubs are keeping a close eye on the Ivory Coast international.
Diomande came through the ranks at FC Midtjylland before joining Sporting CP back in January this year. He has gone from strength to strength since making the move to Portugal. The teenage sensation already has 23 appearances for the Portuguese club’s first team and he has even contributed towards four goals.
He ended the 2022/23 season on a high and has continued in a similar fashion in the new season. A key part of Ruben Amorim’s plans, he has already featured in six matches this season and also has three goal contributions to his name.
The Ivory Coast international has managed to establish himself as a first-team regular, and his impressive performances have caught the eye of some of the biggest clubs in world football. The likes of Manchester City and Arsenal are interested in the 19-year-old and they could make a move for his services in the near future.
Manchester City are always on the lookout for exceptional talents, and Diomande seems to be one. The Sporting defender could be a great addition to their ranks for the long-term. Meanwhile, Arsenal are a team built around some of the best young talents in world football, and the 19-year-old could be a great option to have.
Mikel Arteta wants more depth in the heart of the defence and Diomande is someone who won’t just fill up a sport he will even challenge for a spot in the starting XI. According to a report, the Gunners have already submitted a bid for his services.
While Manchester City and Arsenal are ready to battle it out for the signatures of the Sporting CP defender, he prefers staying at the club. The Ivory Coast international believes staying at the Portuguese club will guarantee him regular first-team action, and it will help him develop his game further.
The player and his representatives are open to the idea of renewing terms with the club but there is nothing from Sporting reading a new deal. If his terms are not improved, Manchester City and Arsenal could stand a chance of signing him.
