On Tuesday, A Bola reported Crystal Palace are close to reaching an agreement with Sporting to buy Ousmane Diomande for €55m.
Later that day, Africa Foot stated, having spoken to sources close to the player, the FA Cup winners are in advanced negotiations to sign the 21-year-old.
Wednesday’s A Bola reports Crystal Palace are determined to sign the centre-back and that €55m figure is mentioned again.
The two clubs are said to be discussing the payment structure and the figure for the percentage of a future sale. Both clubs want a successful outcome, and the report makes it sound like a move is close.
Another Portuguese newspaper, O Jogo, reports Crystal Palace’s interest in the defender is ‘real’. They have watched him on several occasions and believe his addition could improve their defence.
The Eagles aren’t the only club keen as other Premier League sides are also in the picture. The Ivory Coast international has an €80m release clause, but Sporting are requesting €60m for him. O Jogo reports the price tag ‘puts a damper on the English club’s expectations.’
Wednesday’s edition of Record also states Sporting are asking €60m for the player and then contradicts A Bola’s claims.
They explain Sporting’s demand is ‘beyond the reach’ of Oliver Glasner’s side, who are willing to offer €30m for Diomande.
Crystal Palace, who are already aware of Sporting’s request, haven’t made any official bid for the Ivorian, keeping things verbal to this stage. Record adds they are also negotiating to sign RC Strasbourg Ismaël Doukouré.