Aston Villa have reportedly identified Sporting CP's highly-rated defender Ousmane Diomande as a potential transfer target, according to fresh reports from Portugal.
Villa Join the Race for Defensive Talent
Portuguese newspaper Leonino claims that Unai Emery's side have the Ivorian centre-back 'on their radar' and could potentially make a move when the transfer window reopens next month. The report states that Villa have joined Crystal Palace in showing concrete interest in the 22-year-old, who is described as 'one of the most valuable assets' at the Lisbon club.
Diomande, who joined Sporting from Danish side Midtjylland in 2023, has a contract that runs until 2027. However, his club are keen to secure his long-term future and are attempting to renegotiate his deal. They are reportedly willing to increase his salary and extend his contract until 2030, but crucially, they intend to retain his current release clause of €80 million (approximately £68m).
Financial Hurdles and Competition
The same story suggests that Crystal Palace were prepared to offer up to €55 million for Diomande last summer, but were not willing to meet the asking price. The defender has made 110 appearances for Sporting overall, though he has been limited to just nine outings this season after returning from an injury.
For Villa, bolstering the defence could be a consideration. While they currently have Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa, and Victor Lindelof available, Tyrone Mings is not expected back from his serious knee injury until the New Year. Despite this, it would represent a significant financial outlay for the club to activate such a clause, especially in the January window.
Is a January Move Realistic?
Given the scale of the reported fee and Financial Fair Play considerations, a transfer in the coming weeks would be a major surprise. Villa's financial headroom is likely to be tested, making a summer move appear more plausible if their interest is genuine and sustained.
The pursuit of Diomande signals Villa's ambition to compete at the highest level, but it also highlights the premium price for top young defensive talent in European football. Whether they choose to act on this interest next month or wait until the summer remains to be seen.
