Sporting's Diomande Tops Palace Wishlist

Crystal Palace have initiated negotiations with Sporting Lisbon regarding the potential transfer of highly-rated center-back Ousmane Diomande, as the club seeks defensive reinforcements this summer.

The South London club faces uncertainty surrounding captain Marc Guehi's future, with the England international entering the final year of his contract. This situation has prompted Palace to prioritize defensive signings during the current transfer window.

The 21-year-old Ivorian defender has emerged as a primary target for Palace, though the deal's completion remains uncertain given the significant £40 million valuation and widespread European interest in the player.

Should the transfer materialize at this price, it would shatter Crystal Palace's existing transfer record - the £32 million paid for Christian Benteke in 2016 - demonstrating the club's ambition to strengthen their backline.

With Guehi potentially departing this summer to avoid losing him on a free transfer next year, securing Diomande's services could prove crucial for Palace's defensive stability in the upcoming Premier League campaign.