Rumors are swirling as Newcastle United and Arsenal gear up for a head-to-head battle in the race to secure the signature of Sporting CP’s promising defender, Ousmane Diomande, slated for the upcoming January transfer window. According to reports from The Sun, Newcastle has recently joined the fray, ready to contend for the £70m-rated young talent.
Facing a string of injuries, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is actively seeking reinforcements, leading the Magpies to dispatch scouts on three separate occasions to closely assess Diomande’s performances, most notably during Sporting’s recent match against Benfica. The 19-year-old prodigy has drawn significant attention from the Magpies as they track his development.
Earlier reports indicated Arsenal’s interest in acquiring the services of the Ivorian international, having submitted an initial bid of €35m (£30m) in September. However, Sporting CP swiftly rejected the offer, deeming it insufficient for their prized asset.
Diomande, who made the move to Sporting in January from Midtjylland, remains under contract until 2027. The highly talented center-back has been a consistent presence in Sporting’s lineup this season, featuring in every game and impressively contributing two goals and one assist in 16 appearances across various competitions.
Ruben Amorim’s Sporting contingent is poised to resume action post-international break on November 26, locking horns with Dumiense in a Taca de Portugal encounter.
As the January transfer window draws near, the tug-of-war for Diomande’s signature intensifies, with both Newcastle United and Arsenal eyeing the young defensive sensation to bolster their respective squads.