Leeds United will face competition from Chelsea and AFC Bournemouth in the race for Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande this summer.
Over the past two weeks, there’s been multiple claims of the Whites’ interest in the 22-year-old.
On Wednesday, Sport Witness covered claims from Portugal that Leeds United are ready to offer €40m plus €10m bonuses to convince the Lions.
The Elland Road club now have to deal with Chelsea, Bournemouth and Como as these three clubs join the battle.
Chelsea, Bournemouth and Leeds make contact
That’s according to Top Mercato, who covers the latest on Leeds United, Chelsea and AFC Bournemouth. The outlet makes it clear it’s their own information.
Daniel Farke’s side have already made contact for the Ivory Coast international. The two other Premier League sides and Como have also initiated contact. It’s not clear whether the Blues and the Cherries contacted his agent, Sporting or both.
This is how Chelsea, Bournemouth and Como join the battle to spoil Leeds United’s efforts to sign Diomande
The Premier League trio will face a fierce battle from the Serie A side, who seem to have the upper hand.
The Stamford Bridge club and the Whites can’t offer European football while Bournemouth have qualified for the Europa League next season. Cesc Fàbregas’ side will play in the Champions League and can use this to tempt Diomande.
With several clubs in the transfer race, Top Mercato claims the ‘bidding war is on’ to sign the Ivorian. Sporting, for their part, are willing to sanction a move as long as there’s an offer exceeding €40-45m.
It’s worth noting the Portuguese press stated the Lions intend to retain the defender.
Contract, value and agent info
In January, Ousmane Diomande signed a new contract at Sporting until 2030. His value, as per Transfermarkt, is €42m.
Agency Roof represent the Sporting defender. He’s played 2,302 minutes from 31 matches this season and is now with the Ivory Coast at the World Cup.