According to Defensa Central, Arsenal have reportedly identified Ousmane Diomande as a potential replacement for Real Madrid-linked William Saliba. The Gunners are not eager to lose the Frenchman although they are prepared to make plans in case their key defender departs.
Arsenal are set to enter the summer market with their plans to strengthen their squad. However, there could be some unforeseen circumstances where they might end up losing a big player to another club, in which case, the Gunners are eager to stay prepared for whatever outcome.
Here the main story is about Ousmane Diomande, as the Gunners are prepared to make a move for the Ivorian defender in case William Saliba departs. Mikel Arteta is a long-time admirer of the Sporting CP star and had in the past thought about bringing the Ivorian to the Emirates
Diomande could be made available in the summer as Sporting CP could be left powerless to the player’s desire for a new challenge. Arsenal are not alone in the chase as there are many other Premier League sides such as Aston Villa keeping a close eye on Diomande’s situation. There’s interest from Chelsea, while Newcastle United are also keen.
The Blues are always on the lookout for younger players with a big upside in their careers. They are in the market for a new defender and have tracked Diomande for quite a while. Meanwhile, Newcastle United are also looking for a new centre-back having considered a move for the Ivorian before. Either Chelsea or Newcastle United will be alert to his situation if Sporting CP makes Diomande available in the summer.
Arsenal are not eager to lose Saliba at all costs but their stance could change should the defender not sign a new deal. The Frenchman’s current agreement ends in 2027, as Real Madrid are prioritising a move for Saliba in the upcoming window. Meanwhile, the Gunners are aware of the €80 million release clause in Diopmande’s contract and would be willing to pay a significant fee if they were forced to sell their current star.
Arsenal will want a player of Diomande’s quality to replace Saliba if the latter leaves, although it is in their interest to keep hold of the Frenchman. Other names like Dean Huijsen have been linked, which does indicate that irrespective of the Saliba situation, they are in the market for a new defender.
