Sporting starlet Ousmane Diomande has been linked with a move to Arsenal ahead of next summer. Portuguese outlet Record have stated the Gunners had a £30million offer to sign the 19-year-old turned down before the summer transfer window slammed shut at the start of September.
The young centre-back has made a name for himself in Portugal as one of the most talented defenders in Europe after impressing last season. Diomande made 34 appearances for the Portuguese outfit last term, scoring two goals and providing one assist — along with keeping 11 clean sheets in all competitions.
The report adds that Arsenal have 'promised' to return with an offer to sign the Sporting talent next summer. The Portuguese outfit have reminded interested parties that the 19-year-old has a £69million release clause which can be activated — as talks over a contract renewal are scheduled in the coming weeks.
So, who is Diomande and what could he bring to Arsenal? football.london takes a look...
Diomande is a right-footed centre-back that currently plays for Sporting CP in Portugal. The Ivorian youngster is quickly establishing himself as one of the most promising defenders in Europe after completing a £6.4million move to the Jose Alvalade Stadium in January.
Diomande impressed in the Under-19 League in Denmark when playing for FC Midtjylland which led to Portuguese second tier club CD Mafra signing him on loan for the start of the 2022/23 season. After making 17 appearances in all competitions, he earned a move to Sporting.
The 19-year-old already has European football experience at a young age after competing in the Europa League for Sporting. Diomande predominantly plays as a right centre-back but can also be deployed as an attacking wing-back —
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