Chelsea have started discussions with Sporting Lisbon over a possible move for centre back Ousmane Diomande according to reports in Portugal.
The Blues will likely be in the market for a centre back this summer with Thiago Silva expected to leave when his contract expires at the end of the season and Trevoh Chalobah expected to be sold.
Diomande is just 20 years old but is very highly rated and enjoying a good season at Sporting having joined in January 2023 from Danish side FC Midtjylland.
The Ivory Coast international has been previously linked with a move to Stamford Bridge as well as rivals Arsenal.
Portuguese outlet Record claimed that the Blues sent scouts to watch Diomande last month in the Portuguese Cup against Benfica.
It appears the Stamford Bridge outfit have ramped up their interest in the 20 year old with Record now saying they have jumped ahead of Arsenal, Newcastle and Juventus in the race and have already started contact with Sporting over a potential deal.
The report explains that Mauricio Pochettino’s side are in direct talks over a £51m move this summer.
Diomande has a release clause of £69m in his contract so it remains to be seen if Sporting would sell him for less than the clause.
The defender has made 26 appearances in all competitions this season and has scored twice.
