Arsenal Set to Make Another Offer for Ousmane Diomande Next Year
Arsenal has informed Sporting Lisbon that they will be returning with a new offer to sign defender Ousmane Diomande next year. The Gunners had previously seen their €35 million (£30 million) bid rejected during the summer transfer window. However, they remain keen on securing the services of the 19-year-old centre-half.
Diomande joined Sporting from Danish side Midtjylland in January for a fee of €7.5 million. He had impressed during a loan spell at Mafra in Portugal in the first half of the season, which prompted Arsenal’s interest. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has been an admirer of Diomande since his move to Sporting.
According to reports, Arsenal offered Sporting the chance to make a significant profit on Diomande with their €35 million bid. However, the Portuguese club swiftly rejected the offer. Despite this setback, Arsenal is determined to return with a new offer next summer.
Diomande quickly established himself as a regular in the Sporting defense following his arrival earlier this year. He even made his European debut against Arsenal in the Europa League. His performances have also earned him a call-up to the Ivory Coast national team, making his senior debut in a 1-0 victory over Lesotho.
Arsenal’s interest in Diomande comes as they look to reinforce their defensive options. They recently signed Jurrien Timber from Ajax in a £40 million deal. However, Timber suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury on his debut against Nottingham Forest and could potentially be ruled out for the rest of the season. Arteta expressed his disappointment at Timber’s injury, stating that it was a big blow for the team.
Despite this setback, Arteta remains optimistic and believes that the team will adapt to the situation. He praised Timber’s character and stated that the club will provide him with the necessary support during his recovery.
In the meantime, Arsenal is focused on securing Diomande’s signature next year. The young defender has an €80 million release clause, indicating Sporting’s valuation of him. However, Arsenal is determined to negotiate a deal that suits both parties.
The Gunners’ interest in Diomande highlights their commitment to strengthening their squad for the future. They have also been linked with other players, such as Gabriel Magalhaes and Martin Odegaard, as they look to build a competitive team.
Fans can expect more transfer activity from Arsenal in the coming months as they continue to pursue their targets. The club is determined to improve its defensive options and believes that Diomande could be a valuable addition to the team.
In conclusion, Arsenal is set to make another offer for Ousmane Diomande next year after their initial bid was rejected. The Gunners remain keen on signing the young defender and are determined to negotiate a deal with Sporting Lisbon. Diomande’s impressive performances have caught the attention of Arsenal, and they believe he could be a valuable addition to their squad. Fans can expect more transfer activity from Arsenal as they look to strengthen their team for the future.