Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months.
According to a report by A Bola via Sport Witness, Crystal Palace and Newcastle United are interested in signing Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande, and he will be available for a deal in the summer transfer window. The youngster has a release clause worth €80 million in his contract with the Portuguese club.
Ousmane Diomande has impressed in Portugal
The two Premier League clubs have been tracking the 22-year-old defender for quite some time, and they have now received a boost in their pursuit of the player. Sporting are prepared to negotiate his departure in the summer for the right price.
It remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace would be willing to spend €80 million on the player. The 22-year-old is a phenomenal defender, and he has consistently impressed in the Primeira Liga. Both Newcastle United and Crystal Palace need more quality in their defensive unit, and the youngster would be a future investment for them.
Apart from his superiority in clearances (4 per 90min), interceptions (1), and ground duels (1.3), he is excellent in the air (2.3 duels) due to his tall frame. He has a passing accuracy of 94%, suggesting he is comfortable on the ball and could help both teams build from the back.
Crystal Palace and Newcastle United could use Diomande
Crystal Palace have endured a disappointing season, and they are 14th in the Premier League table. The Eagles have conceded 35 goals in 30 top-flight matches, and it is clear that they need to improve their defensive record. They will need to fill the void left by former captain Marc Guehi who left the club for Manchester City in January. Diomande could be the ideal long-term replacement.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United are looking to build a team capable of regularly competing in the Champions League. The Magpies have conceded 45 goals in 31 Premier League matches this season. They have been quite poor at the back, and it is an area that desperately needs strengthening. Signing a quality defender could make a big difference for them next season.
The 22-year-old Ivorian defender could be attracted to the idea of moving to the Premier League. Crystal Palace and Newcastle United might not be his dream destination, but they could be the ideal stepping stone for the player. If he manages to impress with them, he might be able to secure a bigger move in future.
The fact that Sporting CP are open to negotiations will certainly encourage the two clubs to make a move in the summer. It remains to be seen which of the two clubs can get the deal done. Newcastle United are among the wealthiest clubs in the world and have the finances to get the deal across the line, but they will need to be careful about financial regulations as well.
