Leeds United have emerged as a new contender to sign Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande this summer.
The Ivory Coast international joined the Lions from FC Midtjylland in January 2023 and has been a regular since then.
His performances have already seen a few Premier League sides show interest in recent years and Leeds United now join the list.
On May 16th, Sport Witness relayed news Chelsea have joined Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich in the battle for the centre-back.
Four days later, we covered claims from Portugal of AFC Bournemouth entering the race. The Cherries identified him as a potential replacement for Marcos Senesi, who will leave as a free agent.
Leeds United making move for Ivorian
Daniel Farke’s side ‘particularly appreciate’ Ousmane Diomande’s profile. That’s according to 225 Foot, a source in the Ivory Coast, who make it clear it’s their own information about the Whites.
Their title states Leeds United are making move and within the report, they explain the Elland Road club ‘would like to finalise’ his arrival quickly.
That may not happen soon considering the defender will be at the World Cup with his national team. The English club’s representatives will keep a close watch on him during the tournament.
The operation also remains complex because the Lions won’t let the 22-year-old leave cheaply. Sporting are asking for a ‘substantial sum’ and want at least €50m to part ways with Diomande.
Despite this, 225 Foot insist negotiations could progress quickly because the player prioritises making a switch to England if he leaves Sporting this summer.
However, Leeds United would only be able to make advances if they are willing to match or get close to the €50m price. Earlier reports in Portugal have suggested €40m plus bonuses may be enough.
However, as it stands, Leeds United interest hasn’t been backed up in Portugal, suggesting this information has come from the player’s camp.
Contract, value and agent info
Ousmane Diomande has a contract until 2030 and has an €80m release clause. His value, as per Transfermarkt, is €42m.
German agency Roof, headed by agent Björn Bezemer, represent the Sporting player.
