The transfer temperature at the City Ground is officially reaching boiling point. As Nottingham Forest prepares for a demanding new Premier League campaign under the guidance of manager Oliver Glasner, the club’s recruitment team has set its sights firmly on one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders: Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande.
Glasner Revives His Long-Standing Pursuit
Following the departure of Vitor Pereira, Glasner has wasted no time identifying areas of the squad that require immediate reinforcement. With central defensive depth currently tested due to Murillo working his way back from injury and ongoing speculation surrounding various squad members, bolstering the backline has become an absolute priority.
Glasner’s interest in Diomande is far from a knee-jerk reaction. The Austrian tactician was previously keen on bringing the Ivory Coast international to Crystal Palace during his tenure there. Now installed at the helm in Nottingham, Glasner has immediately renewed his pursuit of the 22-year-old powerhouse.
The £43 Million Valuation and Stiff Competition
Reports originating from Portugal indicate that Sporting CP are fully prepared to part ways with their prized asset this summer, but it will come at a hefty price. The Portuguese giants are demanding a fee in the region of €50 million (£43 million) to even consider entering serious negotiations, though that figure sits comfortably below his lofty €80 million release clause.
Despite the steep price tag, Forest are not alone in the race. The youngster’s stellar displays—including a strong showing with the Ivory Coast national team at the 2026 World Cup—have placed him firmly on the radar of several European heavyweights. Premier League rivals including Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, and Leeds United are all monitoring his situation, alongside Italian giants AC Milan, where former boss Rúben Amorim has previously worked closely with the defender.
Discussions Underway Amid Pre-Season Preparations
Sources in Portugal reveal that preliminary discussions have already taken place between Forest and Sporting regarding a potential structure for the deal, although a formal, official bid has not yet been submitted.
Diomande is currently enjoying the tail-end of his summer holiday following his international exertions, but his future is dominating the back pages. For Forest, securing a player of his physical profile—standing at an imposing 6’3″ with exceptional ball-playing capabilities—would represent a monumental statement of intent from the 49ers ownership group and Glasner.
As pre-season ramps up and fitness updates on Murillo continue to offer positive signs, the coming weeks will determine whether Forest can successfully outmuscle their rivals and pull off one of the most exciting defensive acquisitions of the summer window.
Would Ousmane Diomande be the ultimate defensive partner for Murillo, or is a £43m price tag too steep? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
