Union Berlin are in advanced talks to sign Ivorian international Sinaly Diomandé from AJ Auxerre in a deal that could be worth around €4.5 million.
The 24-year-old centre-back, who joined Auxerre on a free transfer last summer from Olympique Lyonnais, has impressed with consistent and commanding performances in Ligue 1.
His displays have made him one of the most sought-after defenders in the closing stages of the summer transfer window, with the Bundesliga side emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.
Negotiations between Union Berlin and Auxerre are understood to be ongoing, although no agreement has yet been finalised. The French club are reluctant to lose a key defensive figure, especially as they prepare for the new season with ambitions of improving on last year’s mid-table finish.
Sources close to the discussions suggest Auxerre could attempt to hold firm, knowing Diomandé remains under contract until June 2027.
Union Berlin’s interest comes as they seek to bolster their backline ahead of a demanding campaign. The German side’s willingness to invest heavily underscores the value they see in Diomandé,
whose market price is currently estimated at €5 million by Transfermarkt. Should the move go through, it would represent a significant step for the Ivorian, offering him the chance to test himself in the Bundesliga.
Diomandé made 23 appearances in Ligue 1 last season, scoring three goals and providing two assists – an impressive return for a central defender.
His combination of aerial dominance, positional awareness and composure on the ball has not only earned him plaudits from fans and pundits but also drawn interest from other clubs, including English Premier League side Everton.
Auxerre, however, are weighing the potential benefits of a sale against the impact of losing one of their defensive mainstays.
With the season opener against FC Lorient approaching, the club may prefer to retain stability at the back rather than disrupt their defensive structure.
Diomandé’s current annual salary stands at €820,000 – approximately 533 million FCFA – a figure that Union Berlin are reportedly prepared to match or improve.
His contractual situation gives Auxerre a strong bargaining position, making any transfer dependent on whether the German side can meet their demands.
As the clock ticks towards the end of the transfer window, Union Berlin must decide whether to raise their offer or risk losing out to other suitors.
For Diomandé, the decision could shape the next key phase of his career – either continuing to anchor Auxerre’s defence in Ligue 1 or embracing a fresh challenge in German football.
Auxerre begin their Ligue 1 campaign against FC Lorient, with bookmakers offering odds of 2.45 for a home win, 3.52 for a draw, and 3.09 for a Lorient victory.
Whether Diomandé will still be wearing Auxerre’s colours by the time the transfer deadline passes remains an open question – but his future is now firmly one of the most watched stories of the French summer market.
