Manchester United are actively pursuing a move for Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande, one of the most promising young talents in Portuguese football.
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The 20-year-old centre-back has caught the attention of top European clubs, including Manchester City and Arsenal, as speculation about his future intensifies.
Having joined Sporting from Midtjylland in January 2023, Diomande has quickly become a pivotal figure at the club.
In his debut Primeira Liga season, he made 26 appearances and played a crucial role in Sporting’s triumphant campaign, clinching their historic 20th league title under Ruben Amorim, who is now the head coach at Manchester United.
Reports from Sky suggest that Diomande is poised to become a major attraction in the next two transfer windows. Both Manchester United and Manchester City are vying for the Ivorian international, with City marking him as a “priority” target.
Hugo Viana, City’s incoming director of football, is already formulating a strategy to persuade Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, to release the player.
Manchester United, however, are not backing down. Amorim has reportedly discussed the move directly with Diomande, emphasizing the benefits of continuing their professional relationship at Old Trafford.
It’s said that Diomande is “leaning towards” United due to his connection with Amorim, though City remains in the race.
Diomande’s current deal with Sporting includes an €80 million (£66m) release clause. While Sporting recognizes that such a figure might be unattainable, they remain open to negotiations.
The towering defender, standing at 6 feet 3 inches, is contracted to the Primeira Liga side until 2027, ensuring Sporting is in a strong position to demand a premium fee.
Diomande’s agent, Luis Cassaiano Neves, has stressed that the young player is committed to Sporting for now.
“He is extremely satisfied at Sporting, focused on the club and its objectives for this season, including winning the national title,” Neves told A Bola. “Sporting is Diomande’s present and future, the ideal club for his evolution.”
As the January transfer window approaches, the competition for Diomande’s signature is heating up. Both Manchester clubs are eager to bolster their defenses, but United may have an edge thanks to Amorim’s influence. However, with City’s vast resources and Sporting’s firm stance on valuation, this transfer saga is far from over.
Stay tuned as the Premier League giants battle it out for one of the brightest young defenders in Europe.