Manchester United and Newcastle United are reportedly “leading the chase” for the signature of 22-year-old Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande this summer.
According to a report by A Bola, as relayed by Sport Witness, Manchester United and Newcastle United are keen on signing Ousmane Diomande. The Sporting CP defender is also a target for Crystal Palace. However, Manchester United and Newcastle United have “intensified their interest” after his exceptional performance against Arsenal in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final.
How has Ousmane Diomande fared at Sporting CP?
Ousmane Diomande has established himself as one of the world’s best young defenders since joining Sporting CP from FC Midtjylland in January 2023. While the 22-year-old has endured a topsy-turvy ride in recent campaigns, he has made substantial progress in the last three years, with his performance in the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Arsenal provoking the interest of several clubs.
The Ivory Coast international has made over 100 appearances thus far for Crystal Palace while chipping in with seven goals and two assists. Meanwhile, Diomande’s progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, with Crystal Palace, Manchester United, and Newcastle United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.
A man in demand
The Sporting CP defender has been on Crystal Palace’s radar for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as the Eagles are yet to fill Marc Guehi’s void since selling him to Manchester City earlier this year. Diomande has thus emerged as a viable target, as he can be a long-term solution at the heart of the defence alongside Maxence Lacroix.
Meanwhile, Manchester United’s interest in Ousmane Diomande is understandable. While Harry Maguire has signed a new contract with the Red Devils, he is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career. Additionally, the uncertainties surrounding Matthijs de Ligt have soared amid his prolonged absence due to a back injury.
As for Newcastle United, the Magpies want to sign a new centre-back this summer, as Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are in the twilight of their careers. Additionally, Sven Botman has struggled with fitness issues in recent seasons. So, Diomande is an option worth considering for Newcastle United.
Meanwhile, the report has revealed that even though Diomande has a release clause worth €80 million in his contract with Sporting CP, they are happy to sell him for €50 million. While the price tag is affordable for Crystal Palace, they must step up their interest to catch up with Manchester United and Newcastle United.