Real Madrid continues their search for defensive reinforcements following last season’s challenges with centre-back depth. While Dean Huijsen arrived this summer, reports suggest the club might pursue another option to strengthen the backline.
A new name linked with Real Madrid is Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande, according to English media reports highlighted by Mundo Deportivo. The Spanish outlet indicates strong interest from the club.
Xabi Alonso reportedly holds a high opinion of the young Sporting CP player. He believes the 21-year-old Ivory Coast international possesses significant potential for growth.
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Last season in Liga Portugal, Diomande made 31 appearances for Sporting. During this time, he contributed to nine clean sheets and scored two goals. His defensive work was notable, averaging over nine defensive actions and four ball recoveries per game.
Diomande’s performances have attracted considerable interest from several English clubs. Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Arsenal, and Chelsea are all reportedly monitoring the defender.
Winning the race for Diomande would require overcoming this competition. His contract with Sporting runs until 2027 and includes an €80 million release clause.
Some sources suggest a €60 million fee might be enough to secure his transfer. However, this figure remains a significant sum that Real Madrid might be hesitant to pay easily.
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Bringing Diomande to the club would position him as a potential long-term defensive fixture under Xabi Alonso. The decision could hinge on the fitness of Eder Militao and the manager’s confidence in existing veteran defenders.
