In a recent report, journalist Pete O’Rourke mentioned that Newcastle United are keen on recruiting Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande this summer. It has been stated that the Magpies have made contact to sign the Ivory Coast centre-back at the end of this season.
Diomande’s Impressive Season In Portuguese Football
Diomande has enjoyed a decent campaign at the Portuguese club as he has put in a run of solid performances at the heart of their backline. The 20-year-old has scored four goals and grabbed two assists in 42 matches for his current employers this season in various competitions.
The Ivory Coast talent has been a rock at the back for Sporting and deserves credit for averaging 1.5 tackles and 1.7 clearances per 90 minutes in Liga Portugal. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from the back based on his pass completion rate of 91.2% in the Portuguese first division (stats via whoscored)
His current contract at the Portuguese club will expire in the summer of 2027. Thus, the Magpies would have to launch a convincing offer if they want to recruit the gifted defender this month.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Bring Diomande On Board?
Diomande is a tough-tackling defender who is proficient at playing his way out from the back. He usually puts his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive. Standing at 1.90m, the Ivory Coast talent can use his strong frame to win his fair share of aerial duels for his side. However, he has still not proven his worth at the highest level.
Still, there is no doubt that Diomande has what it takes to challenge for a regular starting spot at Newcastle United. He would add more bite and steel to Eddie Howe’s defence and could help the Magpies challenge across all fronts over the next few years.
At 20, Diomande has got a bright future ahead of him which makes him a worthy target for the Magpies to pursue this year. However, there are some concerns over whether he can cope with the high intensity of Premier League football. Still, Howe would be wise to bring him on board before the end of this winter transfer window.
