Who is Ousmane Diomande? Meet the £68M defender continuously linked with Liverpool

Liverpool are linked with new players almost every day but one link that refuses to go away despite managerial turbulence is Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande.

With a release clause of £68 million (€80m), according to Portuguese outlet O Jogo, this young defender is turning heads across Europe, especially at Anfield.

But who exactly is Diomande, and why are Liverpool interested in him?

What is Ousmane Diomande's Background?

Ousmane Diomande's journey to professional football has not been easy but given his talent, he was bound to succeed and now with the biggest clubs interested in signing him, the 20-year-old could be set for another massive step in his career.

Born in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, Diomande showcased a natural affinity for the game from a young age, particularly in defensive roles where his physicality and understanding of the game cut a pathway for him to follow.

Navigating through local clubs and academies, Diomande's prowess on the field quickly caught the attention of scouts across Europe.

He played for OS Abodo before moving to Danish club Midtjylland in January 2020. After spending two years in Denmark, inclduing a loan spell at Mafra in Portugal.

It was here that he caught the attention of Sporting Lisbon, who he joined in 2023 for a fee reported to be €7.5 million. It could could rise to €12.5 million with add-ons.

His dedication led him to Sporting CP, where under the tutelage of Ruben Amorim, he has blossomed into one of the most sought-after young talents in football.

His contributions have been pivotal in Sporting's bid for the Liga Portugal title, and his performances on the international stage, notably at the African Cup of Nations, have only heightened his appeal.

Liverpool's Interest in Diomande

Liverpool's search for defensive reinforcements is well-documented.

With Joel Matip's contract winding down and concerns over long-term options, the Reds are keenly scouting for quality additions.

Diomande has emerged as a prime target in this quest.

Reports from Portugal, particularly from O Jogo on the weekend, via Paisley Gates, suggest Liverpool, alongside Arsenal, Chelsea, and Newcastle United, are keen admirers of the Ivorian defender.

Diomande's openness to a move, combined with Liverpool's proactive approach to securing defensive talents, paints an intriguing picture of potential summer transfer activity.

His release clause, set at a hefty £68 million, reflects his value to Sporting CP and the high regard in which he's held.

However, with Liverpool's history of strategic investments, Diomande could well be viewed as a long-term successor to the likes of Virgil van Dijk.