Liverpool Are Keen On Signing This Sporting CP Emerging Starlet: What Will He Bring To Anfield? | OneFootball

Liverpool have identified Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande as a viable target for the summer transfer window, as per the Express. The Premier League club believe in the youngster’s potential and want to invest in him early.

Sporting’s Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Portuguese league football match between Sporting CP and SL Benfica at the Jose Alvalade stadium in Lisbon on May 21, 2023. (Photo by CARLOS COSTA / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS COSTA/AFP via Getty Images)

In no time, Diomande emerged as a reliable name on the team sheet. He featured in 38 games this season, netting thrice and providing an assist. He averaged 1.4 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, and 1.6 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).

The 20-year-old defender plays a centre-back and is a physically strong guy. He is a good reader of the game and tries to work on his positioning. He is good with the ball at his feet and doesn’t shy away from tackling whenever required. However, the youngster needs to work on his aerial abilities.

Liverpool to battle Manchester United

Liverpool are in search of a new defender as Joel Matip has left the club as a free agent. With the club still having a solid backline line-up, they need not spend large to sign a big name. Hence, investing in an emerging talent could be a good move.

The acquisition of Ousmane Diomande seems a pretty fair deal as he has the potential to develop into an elite defender. The player will get good coaching under Arne Slot alongside some minutes throughout the season based on circumstances.

Diomande has a release clause of £68m in his contract but Sporting CP are reportedly ready to sanction his transfer for just £35m. Hence, the money shouldn’t be a problem for the Reds. However, they should be quick in cracking a deal as arch-rivals Manchester United are also closely monitoring the hot property.