Newcastle in talks over ‘very talented’ player Ruben Amorim likes, their scouts have been very impressed – journalist

Newcastle United have intensified their efforts to secure one of Europe’s most promising defensive talents, with confirmed talks between the club and representatives of Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande.

The 21-year-old Ivorian international has emerged as a prime target for Eddie Howe’s side as they seek to bolster their backline ahead of their Champions League campaign, though they face stiff competition from several elite clubs for his signature.

Newcastle’s interest in Diomande stems from extensive scouting over the past year, with the young defender making a lasting impression on the Magpies’ recruitment team.

His performances in Portugal’s Primeira Liga and the Champions League have showcased a rare blend of physicality and technical proficiency that aligns perfectly with Howe’s tactical demands.

Ousmane Diomande’s Statistical Profile (2024/25 Season)

What Diomande Would Bring to St James’ Park

1. Ball-Playing Prowess – His elite passing statistics demonstrate comfort in possession that would enhance Newcastle’s build-up play
2. Aerial Dominance – Averaging more aerial wins than any Sporting teammate, he’d add steel to Newcastle’s defense
3. Attacking Threat – Unusual involvement in opposition penalty areas for a center-back
4. Tactical Flexibility – Capable of playing in both back four and back three systems

Sporting manager Ruben Amorim’s glowing endorsement carries significant weight: “Diomande plays with both feet, and is very physically strong.

He’s a very talented player with tremendous scope for progression.” These comments reveal why the Portuguese club face an uphill battle to retain their prized asset this summer.

While Diomande represents Newcastle’s primary defensive target, the club maintains interest in Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi as a proven Premier League alternative. The contrast between the two targets highlights Newcastle’s dual-track approach:

Financial and Tactical Considerations

Newcastle’s potential outlay for Diomande would represent a significant investment in their defensive future. At 21, he fits the profile of a player who could anchor their backline for the next decade while possessing immediate first-team quality.

His €80 million release clause may necessitate creative negotiation, but Sporting’s reputation as a selling club could facilitate a deal below that threshold.

From a tactical perspective, Diomande’s skill set would allow Howe greater flexibility in implementing his preferred system.

The Ivorian’s comfort in possession would enable Newcastle to build attacks from deep against high-pressing opponents, while his physical attributes provide assurance in defensive transitions – a crucial requirement for Champions League football.

As talks progress, Newcastle must convince Diomande that St James’ Park represents the ideal environment for his continued development.

The promise of regular minutes in Europe’s premier club competition could prove decisive against interest from clubs with more established pedigrees but greater squad depth.

For Sporting, the coming weeks will test their resolve to retain their defensive cornerstone. Newcastle’s willingness to meet their valuation may hinge on player sales, with several current squad members potentially making way to fund this marquee defensive addition.

One certainty emerges from this developing story: in Ousmane Diomande, Newcastle have identified a defender whose rare combination of attributes could transform their backline for years to come.

Whether they can secure his signature against growing competition will reveal much about their pulling power in this new Champions League era.