Diego Pablo Simeone has asked Atlético de Madrid's sports management for a new center-back to arrive next summer. This has been reported by the most important media outlets in Spain, making the veracity of this information clear. The Argentine coach wants to complete his defense with one more piece and is certain that it is necessary to compete for titles.
One of the names that has been mentioned as a possible signing is the center-back from Sporting de Portugal, Ousmane Diomandé. The Ivorian defender has been performing at a high level for two years and has attracted the interest of very powerful teams in Europe. Therefore, it seems that a player who was highly liked at Atlético de Madrid may be moving away from the red-and-white club.
Diomande, a Gem Slipping Away from Atlético de Madrid
Atlético de Madrid's interest in Diomande was no secret. His imposing physique, speed, and ability to anticipate forwards made him an ideal profile to join Josema Giménez in the defense. However, Chelsea has entered the negotiation forcefully and reportedly presented a 60 million euro offer to Sporting de Lisboa.
This poses a huge problem for Atlético de Madrid's sports management. The Portuguese club wants an amount close to his release clause, which is around 80 million euros. This makes the Madrid club move far away from this bid, as they will not pay that money for Ousmane Diomandé.
Chelsea, Determined to Close the Deal
The London team is not the only one interested in Diomande, as teams like Manchester City and Arsenal have also closely followed his development. However, Chelsea seems determined to secure his signing as soon as possible, especially after failing to sign Murillo in the last market.
Sporting de Lisboa knows that this summer they will have to sell their player to get the most money possible. His contract ends in 2027, so if they wait another year, his price will drop, as he will only have one year left to be free.