Arsenal have reportedly made a formal approach for Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande, signalling serious intent to bring the highly-rated centre-back to North London.
Diomande, 20, joined Sporting in January 2023 and has quickly emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in European football. The Ivorian international played a pivotal role last season, making 26 appearances as Sporting clinched their 20th league title under then-coach Ruben Amorim, now the head coach at Manchester United.
Amidst growing interest, Diomande has become a hot commodity in the transfer market, with top clubs monitoring his progress. According to the Portuguese newspaper Record, Bundesliga leaders Bayern Munich currently hold a strong position in the race, while Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea have also expressed keen interest.
Both London clubs reportedly made initial inquiries about a potential move for Diomande, though these were rebuffed by Sporting, who are reluctant to part with their star talent.
