Arsenal set to compete with Manchester United for Sporting Lisbon star flourishing under Ruben Amorim’s management.

Arsenal are reportedly serious about signing Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon and are set to compete with Manchester United for the center-back’s signature in next summer’s transfer window. Diomande, 20, joined Sporting from FC Midtjylland in 2023 and has made 68 appearances, scoring four goals and providing one assist.

The defender has been a key figure for Ruben Amorim’s Sporting side this season, featuring in 13 games across all competitions, including a standout performance in their 4-1 Champions League win over Manchester City last week.

Amorim is rumored to want Diomande to join him at Manchester United as he prepares to officially take charge of the club on Monday. However, according to Record, Arsenal are also eager to land the young talent and have already contacted Sporting to register their interest.

The report suggests Bayern Munich and Chelsea are also interested, with Sporting likely to struggle to retain Diomande beyond next summer. The player is aware of the interest, though his contract includes an €80m (£67m) release clause, which Sporting could insist upon.

Last year, Diomande’s agent, Luis Cassaiano Neves, stated that his client was “extremely satisfied” at Sporting, viewing it as the ideal place for his growth. Neves told A Bola that Diomande is focused on helping the club achieve its goals, including winning the national title.

Sporting’s success this season has sparked interest in several of their players, with Amorim’s squad featuring stars like striker Viktor Gyokeres. Manchester United are reportedly eager to sign Gyokeres, who has scored 23 goals in 17 games this season, while Manchester City has also shown interest. United are also linked with young prospect Geovany Quenda and Pedro Goncalves, who has five goals and six assists in 11 appearances this season.