‘The bet was right’ – Newcastle told there’ll be no negotiating, they must pay up this month

Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande has been linked with a move to the Premier League, where Newcastle United are reportedly said to be one of the options.

Recent claims in England have talked about the Magpies’ interest and it was also said they have taken the first step by contacting his representatives.

Today’s O Jogo relays it and then provides the Lions’ stance on the possibility of letting the 20-year-old join Newcastle or another club.

Last January, the Portuguese club signed the centre-back from FC Midtjylland and offered him a deal until 2027.

The newspaper states ‘the bet was right’ to invest on €9m on signing the defender and this is also shown by the reported interest from English clubs.

O Jogo report the Ivory Coast international has a €80m release clause in his contract.

Sporting are not willing to negotiate that fee this month and if Newcastle or another club want to sign him in January, they will have to activate his clause.

As well as Eddie Howe’s side, Arsenal are also credited with an interest in Diomande.

In fact, the Gunners have been more strongly linked than Newcastle in recent months.