Arsenal 'match £51m Chelsea offer for Ivory Coast defender'

The 20-year-old has become a key first-team player for the Portuguese giants since making the switch from Danish club FC Midtjylland 14 months ago.

Diomande has featured 46 times for Sporting since making the £11m move in January 2023, finding the net on three occasions across all competitions from a defensive position.

The centre-back recently added an international honour to his growing list of achievements, winning the Africa Cup of Nations as part of the Ivory Coast team in February.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Arsenal have entered the race for secure the services of Diomande during the summer transfer window.

The report claims that Mikel Arteta's side have commenced discussions with the player and his representatives ahead of a potential move to North London later this year.

It is understood that the Gunners have informed Sporting that they are willing to pay a £51.4m fee for the defender - matching Chelsea's offer for the centre-back.

Diomande's former club Midtjylland will be watching developments closely, with the Danish club set to pocket 20% of any future sale of the Ivorian.

Putting pen to paper on his deal at Estadio Jose Alvalade just over a year ago, the seven-time international currently has a £68.5m release clause in his contract.

At this stage, it is believed that neither Arsenal or Mauricio Pochettino's Blues are keen on paying that amount for the promising 20-year-old.

Chelsea are preparing for life without the services of defender Thiago Silva, who will be celebrating his 40th birthday at the end of September.

As well as Diomande, the West Londoners are also reportedly targeting Lille's Leny Yoro, viewing the youngster as a potential replacement for Silva.

Sporting face a real challenge in keeping hold of some of their biggest assets this summer, with striker Viktor Gyokeres also receiving attention from clubs around the continent, including Chelsea.

Since joining from Championship outfit Coventry City last summer, the towering Swede has netted 22 goals in 24 league games, meaning that he leads the Primeira Liga's Golden Boot race.