Arsenal are reportedly planning to make a move for Ousmane Diomande, a defender from Sporting, during the January transfer window. The Gunners are said to be interested in the player due to a release clause in his contract, which is set at £69 million.
Diomande, 25, has been attracting attention from several top clubs across Europe, and Arsenal are now looking to revive their interest in the talented defender. The Gunners have struggled defensively this season, and manager Mikel Arteta is keen to strengthen his backline.
Sporting are aware of the interest in Diomande and are bracing themselves for potential offers in January. The Portuguese club will be hoping to hold on to their star defender, but the release clause in his contract could make it difficult for them to do so.
If Arsenal were to activate the release clause, it would make Diomande one of the most expensive defenders in history. However, the Gunners are reportedly willing to pay the hefty fee in order to secure the services of the highly-rated center-back.
Diomande has been in impressive form for Sporting this season, putting in a number of commanding performances at the heart of their defense. His strong tackling, aerial ability, and composure on the ball have caught the eye of scouts from top clubs around Europe.
Arsenal are hoping that Diomande’s arrival will provide a much-needed boost to their defensive options. The Gunners have struggled with injuries and inconsistent performances from their current crop of defenders, and Arteta sees the Sporting star as the ideal solution to their defensive woes.
The January transfer window will provide Arsenal with an opportunity to strengthen their squad, and the signing of Diomande would certainly be a statement of intent from the North London club. With the release clause in his contract, it remains to be seen whether Arsenal will be able to secure the defender’s services.
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