Rising Defensive Star Ousmane Diomande Available for €50-60 Million
Manchester United’s search for defensive reinforcements has led them to Sporting Lisbon’s promising talent, Ousmane Diomande, who could be acquired for around €50 million this summer.
United’s backline has been plagued by injuries throughout the season, forcing the team to shuffle players constantly. At times, midfielders like Casemiro had to step in as center-backs, alongside Jonny Evans, who is typically a sixth or seventh choice at best.
With the departure of the experienced Raphael Varane imminent, United urgently needs to bolster their defense. Erik ten Hag’s team has been linked with several options, including Jarrad Branthwaite, Jean-Clair Todibo, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Ronald Araujo. However, a recent standout name is Sporting Lisbon’s 20-year-old starlet, Ousmane Diomande.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Diomande is seen as a significant financial asset for Sporting. He was crucial in the early part of the season but saw less action following his appearances for the Ivory Coast in the AFCON. The arrival of Zeno Debast at Sporting has further paved the way for a potential sale.
United has reportedly prioritized the Ivorian to fill Varane’s shoes at Old Trafford, but they face competition from Chelsea, Arsenal, and Newcastle United. A Bola reports that Sporting has set the transfer fee between €50 and €60 million.
Diomande is considered one of the most exciting young talents in Europe, praised for his ball-handling skills and physicality—qualities that United’s current defense, aside from Lisandro Martinez, largely lacks.
At just 20 years old, Diomande fits the profile that INEOS is looking for in young talents ready to take the next step in their careers. This potential signing could significantly strengthen United’s defense and provide a solid foundation for future success.