Ousmane Diomande: Sporting planning new deal for Manchester United target | OneFootball

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim’s search for a new defender appears to have taken him back to Sporting.

The Portuguese has implemented a back three since taking charge at the Theatre of Dreams in November last year.

Because the Red Devils have a squad more suited to a four-man backline, Amorim was expected to invest in a new defender, but that hasn’t happened so far.

While the Premier League giants have adapted well to the change in system, a new centre-back is reportedly on the club’s agenda for 2026.

Amorim eyeing a reunion

United are sweating over the future of Harry Maguire, whose contract expires at the end of this season. With the Englishman due to turn 33 in March next year, his long-term future at Old Trafford hangs in the balance.

The Red Devils are scouting the market for options, and a recent report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Amorim is ready to raid his former club for Ousmane Diomande.

The Ivorian was brought to the Estadio Jose Alvalade by the Portuguese in 2023, during his time in charge of Sporting. Diomande was outstanding for the Primeira Liga club in his debut season, helping them win the league.

While he missed several games due to a muscle injury this campaign, the player remains a key figure under Rui Borges.

Ousmane Diomande Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt

The 21 year old is a physical defender who can dominate the opposition but is also crafty with the ball at his feet. His previous experience of playing under Amorim could also help him settle quickly at Old Trafford, while he also fits the age profile INEOS have been targeting of late.

It is believed that United are already planning to make a move for Diomande in January. However, prising the Ivorian away from Sporting mid-season may not be easy.

Sporting planning Diomande renewal

According to A Bola, Sporting have no desire to let Diomande leave in the winter and are now working to tie him down to a new deal.

The Ivorian reportedly has an €80 million release clause in his contract, but the Portuguese club do not intend to increase it. Instead, their sole aim is to prevent the player from leaving in the middle of the season.

The report adds that Crystal Palace have identified Diomande as the ideal replacement for Marc Guehi, who is out of contract at the end of the season. The Eagles failed with a €55 million bid for the Ivorian defender this summer and could return for him in 2026.

United, meanwhile, are keeping a close eye on developments at the Estadio Jose Alvalade as they prepare succession plans for their backline.

Final Thoughts

The Peoples Person recently relayed another report stating that the Red Devils are also eyeing a Bosman deal for Guehi this summer.

As such, 2026 could be a year of defensive merry-go-rounds, with the domino effect likely to impact several clubs. However, there’s no doubt that Amorim may need to consider a new centre-back, with Luke Shaw also on the wrong side of 30 and Lisandro Martinez struggling with injuries.

With Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven also in the squad, Diomande’s potential arrival could sort out United’s defence for the next decade.

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social