Crystal Palace has stepped up efforts to sign Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomandé as Marc Guéhi edges closer to leaving Selhurst Park.
Guéhi has drawn strong interest from several Premier League clubs in recent months, with Liverpool among the sides attempting to sign him during the summer transfer window.
Although that move collapsed, the England international is still expected to depart before the end of the season, as his current contract expires next summer.
The Palace board has already started planning for life after Guéhi. According to The Sun, the club has shortlisted two central defensive targets, with Diomandé emerging as a leading option.
The 21-year-old centre-back has impressed since joining Sporting CP in January 2023 and is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most promising defenders.
His athleticism, composure, and reading of the game have made him a key figure in the Portuguese side’s backline.
Those performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from major English clubs including Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle.
Sporting managed to retain Diomandé’s services during the recent summer window despite considerable pressure from suitors.
However, a January move remains possible, and Palace hopes to convince the Lisbon club to sanction a deal as part of their long-term defensive rebuild.
Diomandé remains under contract with Sporting until June 2027 and currently earns €580,000 per year.
Transfermarkt values him at around €45 million, reflecting his rising reputation in European football.
For Palace, replacing Guéhi represents one of their biggest priorities ahead of 2025. The 23-year-old has been a vital part of their defensive structure since his arrival from Chelsea in 2021.
However, with little progress in contract talks and top clubs circling, the Eagles accept they may need to cash in before losing him for free.
Manager Oliver Glasner views Diomandé as an ideal successor due to his potential and immediate readiness to adapt to Premier League football.
The club believes his arrival could solidify their defence and provide long-term stability at the heart of their backline.
Palace’s recruitment team also values Diomandé’s versatility and leadership qualities despite his young age. His rapid rise in Portugal demonstrates his ability to thrive under pressure — a trait the club considers crucial for a central defender in England’s top flight.
Negotiations between Sporting and interested clubs will likely intensify in the coming months. Sporting faces a difficult decision: retain a key player to boost their domestic and European campaigns or accept a substantial transfer fee to reinvest in the squad.
Crystal Palace continues to monitor the situation closely while preparing a potential bid. Their pursuit of Diomandé signals a proactive approach as they aim to maintain defensive quality beyond Guéhi’s departure.
The next transfer window could therefore mark a significant turning point for both clubs.
Diomandé’s future remains uncertain, but his talent and market value guarantee that he will remain one of the most sought-after defenders in European football.
