Liverpool and Newcastle United to battle it out for Ivory Coast defensive colossus

Liverpool and Newcastle United enter the race for Ousmane Diomande

Top clubs, including Liverpool and Newcastle United, are showing interest in Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande for the summer window. The media actively links Arsenal and Chelsea with the Ivory Coast international as his steep rise in reputation continues this season.

The 20-year-old is enjoying a fantastic season for Sporting CP, currently at the top of the Liga Portugal table. Sporting CP are seven points clear of their rivals Benfica and also defeated them in the Taca de Portugal semi-finals.

Standing at 1.90 metres, Diomande is an imposing figure and he plays at the centre of the three-man defence. He uses his strength and balance well to shrug off opposition attackers in both ground and aerial duels.

Despite his physical prowess and young age, Diomande keeps his calm instead of committing early to challenges. His primary job is to cover his defensive teammates who are the main aggressor in the three-man defence.

The 20-year-old uses game intelligence and strong positioning to make timely tackles and interceptions, displaying composure and maturity. As a modern-day central defender, Diomande has good technical ability and makes smart decisions while distributing the ball.

Ruben Amorim’s team rely on build-up from the backline and his centre-backs play a crucial role in his philosophy. Diomande has adapted incredibly well in that playing philosophy, enjoying his game and developing rapidly with senior team experience.

Several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool, highly covet Diomande as reported by Portuguese outlet Jornal de Noticias. The 20-year-old has a release clause of 80 million euros in his contract as his demand continues to rise.

The Reds have leaked goals consistently this season and recently that issue has cost them several crucial games. Liverpool needs to invest in their defence department as Joel Matip’s contract expires at the end of the season.

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Furthermore, the injury record of Ibrahima Konate makes him unreliable and Jarell Quansah needs time to continue development without too much pressure. Diomande fits the profile that Liverpool desires and the potential appointment of Amorim as Jurgen Klopp’s successor only makes things interesting and more speculations.