Leeds United join the race for Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande | OneFootball

Leeds United have joined the hunt to land Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande, with reports suggesting they are prepared to break their club transfer record to sign the highly rated Ivorian.

The Whites 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 signature.

Leeds are reportedly preparing an opening offer worth £43.1 million, which, if accepted, would eclipse the club-record £36m paid for the services of Georginio Rutter from Hoffenheim in January 2023.

Sporting are believed to be 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 so far hesitated to make a move, leaving the door open for Leeds to capitalise.

Signing a defender of Diomande’s pedigree immediately strengthens Farke’s tactical setup, as the Ivorian’s 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 the Ivory Coast ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.