Leeds United ‘to offer’ £43m for Ousmane Diomande as Sporting move goalposts | OneFootball

A Bola reports that Leeds United are ready to bid an initial £34.5m for Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande, with add-ons taking the package to £43m, a would-be club record.

Daniel Farke’s side finished 14th in their first Premier League season back in the top flight, highlighting the need for defensive reinforcements as they aim to become a mid-table force next campaign.

Diomande, 22, renewed his Sporting contract in January until 2030 and has a £69m release clause. Sporting have made clear they will resist pressure to sell, despite earlier suggestions they would negotiate at £43m. The club therefore appear to have moved the goalposts.

No formal offer has yet been lodged. Leeds are described as desperate to sign him, but Sporting can afford to wait.

The Ivory Coast international has spent three and a half seasons at Sporting, attracting admirers across Europe including Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Newcastle and Crystal Palace. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he represents Ivory Coast, could intensify interest in the coming weeks.

Source: Leedsunited.news