Leeds United have joined the hunt to land Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande.
They have identified the 22-year-old as a key target to strengthen their defence following an impressive Premier League return under Daniel Farke.
According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, the Elland Road hierarchy are willing to go to great lengths to secure Diomande’s services.
Leeds are preparing an opening offer worth £43.1 million, which eclipses the club-record £36m paid to sign Georginio Rutter from Hoffenheim in January 2023.
Sporting are open to formal negotiations around this figure, viewing it as an acceptable starting point despite Diomande’s £69m release clause.
Leeds’ pursuit of Diomande signals a major statement of intent, as they look to leapfrog several long-term suitors, including Arsenal.
The Gunners have monitored Diomande for several seasons but have failed to make a move, leaving the door open for Leeds to capitalise.
Signing a defender of Diomande’s pedigree would strengthen Farke’s tactical set-up, as his blend of physical dominance and composure in deep build-up play makes him an ideal fit.
However, it would raise questions about the long-term futures of current defensive regulars Pascal Struijk and Joe Rodon.
Any deal for Diomande is likely to face a short delay, as he is currently on international duty with Ivory Coast ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.
