Arsenal and Chelsea have already “made approaches” to sign 20-year-old Ivorian centre-back Ousmane Diomande from Portuguese club Sporting CP.
According to a report by Record, as relayed by Sport Witness, Ousmane Diomande is the subject of interest from Bayern Munich. The Bavarian giants have advanced their move for the Sporting CP defensive prodigy, who will cost around €80 million. However, the Ivory Coast international is also a target for Arsenal and Chelsea, with the two London clubs submitting enquiries for him.
Ousmane Diomande and his rise
Ousmane Diomande has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the world since joining Sporting CP from Midtjylland in January 2023. Several high-profile clubs had already set their sights on the Ivorian defensive prospect during his spell with the Danish club. However, his stock has skyrocketed in the last 22 months.
The 20-year-old has turned out 68 times thus far for Sporting CP while chipping in with four goals and one assist. In addition, Diomande is growing in stature in international football and was part of the squad that won the Africa Cup of Nations this year.
Meanwhile, the youngster’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several European bigwigs, especially from the Premier League. The latest report has revealed that Arsenal and Chelsea are vying for the Ivory Coast international, with the two London clubs already “making approaches” for him. Sporting CP will point to his release clause of €80 million to part ways with him.
London calling?
Arsenal’s interest in Ousmane Diomande is baffling. The Gunners have two of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, with Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Jakub Kiwior, and Takehiro Tomiyasu also capable of reprising those roles. So, it is unclear why Arsenal might want to sign the Sporting CP defensive prodigy.
As for Chelsea, the West London club might part ways with Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile next summer based on how they fare this season. So, Diomande might emerge as a viable target, especially if Wesley Fofana’s fitness issues resurface.
However, Arsenal and Chelsea are behind Bayern Munich, with Die Roten most advanced among the prospective suitors for the 20-year-old Ivorian defender. Meanwhile, it is unclear if the three European heavyweights are ready to cough up €80 million to sign the Sporting CP prospect.
