Everton engage in massive tussle of war for Rangers star Mohamed Diomande
Rangers midfield dynamo Mohamed Diomande is at the heart of a growing Premier League tug-of-war, with Everton leading a six-club pursuit for the 23-year-old Ivorian. TEAMtalk indicate that the Merseyside club have been tracking Diomande for several months, impressed by his adaptability, technical skill, and consistent performances in the Scottish Premiership.
Diomande joined Rangers from FC Nordsjælland last summer for a reported £4.3 million fee. Despite only spending one season at Ibrox, he has quickly made a name for himself with six goals and nine assists, often standing out in key matches. His ability to operate in a variety of roles, from box-to-box midfielder to No.10, even on the wings or in a deeper holding role, has made him an invaluable asset to Rangers and an intriguing prospect for top-flight English clubs.
One size fits all
Everton see Diomande as a versatile solution to their midfield depth issues and believe he fits well into the type of high-energy, multipurpose player that Sean Dyche favours. However, securing his signature will be anything but straightforward.
Rangers are not keen to let him go easily. The Scottish giants view Diomande as a key financial asset and are expected to demand a “very healthy” profit if any deal is to be struck. Sources suggest that unless a “substantial fee” is tabled, Rangers won’t entertain negotiations. The club’s recent strategy has emphasised player development followed by lucrative sales, and Diomande appears to be the next potential windfall.
Managerial appointment to prove decisive
Adding complexity to the situation is the current managerial uncertainty at Rangers. A new head coach is expected to be appointed within the next 48 hours, with Davide Ancelotti, son of former Real Madrid manager and current Brazilian boss Carlo Ancelotti, emerging as the leading candidate. Russell Martin has also reportedly held talks.
The incoming manager’s vision could significantly influence Diomande’s immediate future. The player is said to be interested in understanding what role he would play under the new leadership before committing to a move elsewhere. A manager who values his dynamic skillset may choose to build around him rather than cash in.
There’s also a renewed sense of optimism at Ibrox following the recent takeover by the 49ers group, who have ambitious plans for the club’s growth and European competitiveness. This backdrop adds a layer of uncertainty for Diomande: should he stay and become a central figure in the new era, or should he seize the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League?
Meanwhile, Everton are not alone in their admiration. Diomande’s performances have attracted multiple suitors from England’s top division, all of whom are waiting to see how the situation unfolds. The Toffees, who are also keeping tabs on Brighton’s Matt O’Riley (formerly of Celtic), are looking to make midfield reinforcements a top priority in their summer business.
As Rangers brace for a new managerial chapter and Premier League clubs circle, the next few weeks could be decisive in determining whether Diomande stays north of the border or makes the leap to the world’s most competitive league.