Crystal Palace are set to face stiff competition from Arsenal and Manchester United in their pursuit of Sporting CP defensive mainstay Ousmane Diomande.
According to Record via Sport Witness, Crystal Palace will have to battle Manchester United and Arsenal to get their hands on Ousmane Diomande. The Eagles have a long-standing interest in him, but the competition for his signature has increased significantly over the last 12 months.
The South London outfit tried to sign Diomande during the summer transfer window. They even prepared a proposal worth around €50 million. However, it was deemed to be not good enough. As a result, the move collapsed even before the negotiations got underway.
Crystal Palace have continued to monitor him and would love to sign him this summer, as they want someone who can replace Marc Guehi. The Eagles have scouted Diomande extensively, and they have done groundwork in the past. However, the competition for his services this time around will make things a lot harder.
On the back of his impressive performances and increasing interest, Sporting CP handed him a new deal at the start of the year. While his release clause remains the same at €80 million, his value has gone up to €45 million thanks to his consistent performances.
Manchester United and Arsenal to rival Crystal Palace
While injuries have restricted him to 24 appearances this season, Ousmane Diomande has been doing wonders in the UEFA Champions League. The Ivorian defender had an impressive outing against Arsenal in the quarter-finals first leg, and scouts from Manchester United and Arsenal are now expected to be present in the stands to watch him in the second leg in North London.
It is considered a perfect addition for the 22-year-old ahead of a potential transfer to the Premier League. Not only does the 190cm defender have great aerial ability, but he is also solid and composed in possession. The Ivory Coast international is fully capable of playing out from the back, something that most top clubs seek.
Manchester United might have retained the services of Harry Maguire, but they still need more quality in the heart of the defence, and Diomande could certainly help. While Arsenal have a strong defensive pair in Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba, Mikel Arteta wants to strengthen the rotation by bringing in the Ivorian.
Both Manchester United and Liverpool will certainly make life difficult for the Eagles. While Diomande is protected by a €80 million clause, Sporting would be open to negotiating in the region of €40-50 million. However, the final fee could rise because of the competition and depending on his performance at the World Cup.
