Arsenal weigh €70m move for Ivory Coast centre-back Ousmane Diomande

Arsenal are preparing a bid worth more than €70m for Sporting defender Ousmane Diomande as interest intensifies in one of Europe’s most coveted young centre-backs.

According to Portuguese sports daily Record, the Premier League leaders have monitored the 22-year-old for several months and are now weighing up a substantial offer in an effort to secure his signature ahead of next season.

Diomande recently extended his contract with Sporting CP until June 2030.

However, his release clause remains fixed at €80m — a figure that could prove decisive in negotiations.

While the clause is considered within reach for Arsenal, strong competition from across Europe may inflate the final cost and complicate any potential deal.

Several leading clubs are also reported to be tracking the Ivory Coast international.

Among them are Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid and Galatasaray, as well as Premier League sides Manchester United, Liverpool, Crystal Palace, Chelsea and Newcastle United.

Diomande’s rapid development in Portugal has enhanced his reputation as a commanding presence in defence.

This season he has made 17 appearances in all competitions and scored one goal.

Transfermarkt currently estimates his market value at €45m.

Before signing his contract extension, Diomande was earning an annual salary of €580,000 (approximately 377 million FCFA).

Sporting’s decision to secure his long-term future underlines their desire to retain one of their key defensive assets.

Sporting are set to face Estoril in their 24th Portuguese league matchday, as attention continues to surround Diomande’s future.

With multiple European heavyweights monitoring his situation, the coming transfer window could determine whether Sporting can resist mounting interest or whether Arsenal — or another suitor — will meet the valuation required to complete a high-profile move.