Fakayejo Paul
London, UK – Crystal Palace are reportedly in active negotiations with Portuguese club Sporting CP for the transfer of highly-rated centre-back Ousmane Diomandé.
The Ivorian international is understood to be open to a move to the Premier League, and Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has given his approval for the pursuit of the defender.
Diomandé, 21, has attracted significant interest from several top European clubs, including Arsenal and Chelsea, due to his impressive performances for Sporting.
His current contract with Sporting runs until June 2027 and includes a release clause reportedly set at €80 million.
However, reports suggest that Sporting might be willing to negotiate a fee closer to €60 million.
For Crystal Palace, the potential acquisition of Diomandé would be a significant bolster to their defensive options.
The club is reportedly bracing for the potential departure of Marc Guéhi, who has entered the final year of his contract and is attracting interest from other Premier League clubs.
Glasner’s transfer strategy for the summer, especially with the club set to compete in the Europa League next season after winning the FA Cup, prioritizes strengthening the centre-back position.
While a transfer fee for Diomandé would likely be substantial, potentially in the region of £45 million to £60 million, Palace’s ambition to compete in Europe and Glasner’s clear desire for the player indicate a strong push from the Eagles to secure his signature.
Negotiations are currently underway, and fans will be keenly watching to see if Crystal Palace can fend off competition and land the talented defender.