Nottingham Forest Nears £35m Signing of Sporting CP Defender Ousmane Diomande

Nottingham Forest are in advanced negotiations to sign 22‑year‑old Ivory Coast centre‑back Ousmane Diomande from Sporting CP. The club has reportedly offered around €40 million (about £34 million), significantly below the player's €68 million release clause, aiming to bolster a defence that struggled last season. Diomande, who made 31 appearances for Sporting despite muscle injuries, has over 150 senior matches and 15 international caps, including a World Cup appearance.

The transfer is being driven by new Forest manager Oliver Glasner, who has previously identified Diomande as a priority. Fans and analysts note his physicality, improved passing range and potential to anchor a back three, while highlighting a need to develop his aerial dominance and temperament. Sporting is preparing to replace Diomande, with reports that the sale will free funds for further recruitment. If completed, the deal would represent a major statement of intent from Forest ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.