Chelsea are reportedly optimistic about securing the services of Sporting CP ace Ousmane Diomande for a discounted price.
According to a report from TEAMTalk, Chelsea are interested in acquiring the services of Ousmane Diomande, and they are confident about striking a deal with Sporting CP for a figure lower than his €80 million release clause.
Diomande joined the Portuguese giants at the start of 2023 from FC Midtjylland in a deal worth just €7.5 million. It did not take him long to break into this first team, and he has already established himself as a key figure in the team.
The Ivorian international played a massive part in all the success they had last season, and he has carried on in similar fashion this time around. His consistent performances in the heart of the defence along with his massive potential have attracted a lot of interest.
While his contract at the Portuguese club runs until the summer of 2027, Ousmane Diomande might not be around for long. The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United, where his former boss Ruben Amorim took charge ahead of the winter break.
Chelsea closing in on Diomande
The Red Devils might be keen on signing Ousmane Diomande, but they will have to battle it out with Chelsea, who have a long-standing interest in his services. The Blues have been monitoring him for the last 18 months, and they will continue to do so as he will be one of their top target for the next summer window.
Chelsea want to add more quality and depth at the back. Enzo Maresca wants to strengthen the left side of his defence. Diomande is considered an ideal fit for that role, and he is quite high on their wishlist.
The 21-year-old is protected by a massive release clause worth €80 million, but Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, who are part of Chelsea’s transfer committee, feel there is room for negotiations, and they are confident about striking a deal for a much lower fee.
They believe they can save over €20 million by speaking directly to Sporting and registering their interest at this stage. In the recent past, the Portuguese club have suggested that he is not for sale. However, they could seriously consider registering massive profit by selling someone for around €60 million after having signed him for just €7.5 million.
