Arsenal’s chances of signing Ousmane Diomande have improved as Sporting Lisbon has reduced their asking price for the center-back, according to Record.
The 20-year-old has been a long-term target for Arsenal, who initially wanted to sign him from Norwegian club FC Midtylland.
Sporting Lisbon, however, secured his transfer in January last year. Arsenal made a bold €35 million bid to the Portuguese club last summer, but it was turned down.
According to a report, Arsenal have not yet made a new move, but Sporting Lisbon are willing to lower their demands for their prized asset this summer.
Diomande currently has an €80 million release clause in his contract, but Sporting are prepared to accept €60 million, including add-ons, to facilitate his departure.
Sporting ‘will have to sell in the market to maintain the balance of their accounts’ and Diomande has been identified as the top candidate to leave.
ARSENAL MAY RENEW THEIR INTEREST IN DIOMANDE
The Gunners were keen on signing the Ivorian star last year but have since shifted their focus to other targets like Ajax’s Jorrel Hato.
However, the club might renew their interest in Diomande. Gunners manager Mikel Arteta initially wanted to sign David Raya in 2021 and seized the opportunity last summer.
A similar scenario could unfold with Diomande. The young center-back excels in distribution, averaging 61 passes per league game last season with a 92% accuracy rate.
Diomande won 67% of his duels, making 5.1 recoveries and 1.6 tackles per game. His impressive concentration would make him a valuable addition, increasing competition for spots.
With Sporting eager to sell before June 30, Arsenal have the opportunity to sign the youngster for a reduced initial fee, with the rest covered by performance-based add-ons.
