Manchester City are closely monitoring Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande it has been reported. The centre-back has impressed so far this season as Sporting sit top of the Primeira Liga after an unbeaten start to the season.
The defender signed for Sporting for €7.5 million from Midtjylland on January 31st this year. He has become a key part of the Portuguese giant’s defence as they’ve made an impressive start to the new season. He has also picked up his first international cap for the Ivory Coast this season.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola reports that Manchester City have had scouts present as recently as Sporting’s clash with RB Salzburg. A Bola adds that along with City, title rivals Arsenal are also monitoring the impressive 19-year-old.
Ousmane Diomande is regarded as one of the premier young defensive talents in European football. Saul Morris of footballtalentscout.net reports that Diomande is comfortable with the ball at his feet. That trait is a prerequisite for playing in a Pep Guardiola side. He traditionally lines up as the right-sided central defender.
In addition to being comfortable when in possession, Morris adds that Diomande’s main strengths are his vision, speed and physicality. He is also strong in the air be it in defence or as a threat from set pieces. All very good attributes to have for a centre-back in the Premier League.
As with a player so young Diomande isn’t the finished article. He tends to dive into challenges, resulting in occasional bookings. He also has to develop his weaker foot which is also reported on by Saul Morris.
Ousmane Diomande is a player to keep an eye on for the future. With Manchester City reportedly monitoring the young Ivorian defender his name could be one to watch for this season.
