Ousmane Diomande has eight caps for the Ivory Coast Crystal Palace are in talks with Sporting Lisbon over a move for centre-back Ousmane Diomande. The FA Cup holders are looking to strengthen their defence this summer given the uncertainty over the future of skipper Marc Guehi, who has just 12 months to run on his contract. Diomande, 21, is a serious target for Palace but it remains to be seen whether the clubs can reach an agreement for the central defender, who has also attracted interest from across Europe. The Ivory Coast international is valued at around £40 million, a fee that would smash the club's current transfer record of £32 million for Christian Benteke in 2016. Palace have made signing a new centre-back a summer priority given Guehi's contractual situation. England international Guehi could leave this summer as Palace look to avoid losing him for nothing next summer when his current contract expires.
Palace in talks with Sporting over Diomande
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Crystal Palace Negotiates Transfer for Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Crystal Palace is currently engaged in negotiations with Sporting Lisbon regarding the potential transfer of centre-back Ousmane Diomande. The 21-year-old defender, who has earned eight caps for the Ivory Coast national team, has emerged as a significant target for the FA Cup holders as they aim to bolster their defensive lineup. The urgency for this acquisition is underscored by the precarious situation surrounding their captain, Marc Guehi, who has only 12 months remaining on his contract. With the possibility of Guehi departing the club this summer, Palace is keen to secure a replacement to avoid losing him for free when his contract expires next year. Diomande's value is estimated at around £40 million, which would represent a record-breaking transfer fee for the club, surpassing their previous record of £32 million set during the acquisition of Christian Benteke in 2016.
The interest in Diomande is not limited to Crystal Palace, as the talented defender has attracted attention from various clubs across Europe. This situation places additional pressure on Palace to finalize a deal with Sporting Lisbon, as they look to enhance their squad ahead of the upcoming season. The club's management is prioritizing the signing of a new centre-back, particularly in light of the uncertainty surrounding Guehi's future. As negotiations progress, both clubs will need to come to an agreement regarding the transfer fee and other contractual terms. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact Palace's defensive strategy and overall performance in the upcoming season, making the situation one to watch closely for fans and analysts alike.
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