Ousmane Diomande: Man United preparing January move for Sporting star

Ruben Amorim has once again set his sights on Sporting CP in his bid to strengthen Manchester United’s project.

The ex-Sporting manager tried to bolster his attack by reuniting with Viktor Gyokeres over the summer. However, the Swede had his heart set on a move to Arsenal.

Ahead of the January transfer window, Amorim is reportedly trying his luck in Lisbon again, this time to address his concerns at the opposite end of the pitch.

It has been previously reported that United are interested in Sporting central defender Zeno Debast. Now, a report in Spain suggests the Red Devils are looking to sign his partner in defence.

According to Fichajes , United are “preparing a significant offer” to sign Ousmane Diomande.

It is understood United are exploring the possibility of signing the 21-year-old defender at the request of Amorim.

Considered one of Europe’s most coveted centre-backs, Diomande’s contract at Sporting includes a release clause worth €80m. However, he is thought to be valued at €50m, making a potential deal “affordable” for United.

Amorim fields a three-man defence, but United’s defensive depth is underwhelming. This season, the Portuguese tactician has mostly relied on Luke Shaw to play as a left-sided centre-back, an experiment that has produced mixed results.

It is believed United want to “close the deal” for Diomande “as soon as possible” as they intend to financially back their head coach in January.

Amorim, who signed the Ivorian from Midtjylland in 2023, believes Diomande would be an ideal fit in his 3-4-3 system at Old Trafford, as the youngster is familiar with his tactical principles.

The Ivory Coast international is comfortable dribbling his way out of trouble and progressing the ball. Out of possession, he is aggressive in duels and tends to close space down quickly.

Diomande has everything in his locker to shine under his former boss in England.

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