Crystal Palace target Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande as Marc Guehi replacement

Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing an ambitious move for Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande as a replacement for Marc Guehi this summer.

Palace failed in their bid to find a suitable replacement for Guehi, who signed for Manchester City in a bargain £20 million deal during the January transfer window, despite the English defender having just six months left on his Palace contract.

According to a report from Portuguese outlet Record (via Sport Witness), the Eagles have identified 22-year-old Diomande as the key target to marshal their defence for the new Premier League campaign.

Palace are ready to make a significant move for the 6’3 tall Ivorian international by reviving their interest following an enquiry about the player last year.

This move is largely driven by the major gap left in the backline after Guehi’s departure, prompting Palace manager Oliver Glasner to publicly voice his frustration with the club’s hierarchy.

Diomande’s physical presence is seen as possessing the ideal tactical traits, which are viewed as essential attributes needed at Selhurst Park to make up for the exit of Guehi.

Ousmane Diomande for Sporting (Photo via Getty Images)

Despite signing a contract extension with Sporting just last month — until 2030 — Record reports that the renewal was a calculated move to safeguard his market value rather than a firm commitment to staying long-term.

Although his €80 million (£69m) release clause remains unchanged, Sporting’s board is reportedly willing to negotiate below that figure this summer — a pragmatic step to generate funds for urgent infrastructure upgrades.

Meanwhile, Palace are not the only Premier League side willing to snatch the promising defender. Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Arsenal are strong contenders for Ivorian’s signature.

Further reports note that the two London clubs have reportedly made contact with the player’s representatives last year, and remain attentive to his situation.

Expectations were high above the ceiling for Palace, following their historic trophy success in last season’s FA Cup triumph and a potential push on in the Premier League. Instead, the momentum has stalled.

Palace currently sit 13th in the Premier League and looks set to miss out on European qualification, a setback that could prove decisive in their pursuit of reinforcements.

That uncertainty could ultimately sway Diomandé’s decision on whether to join Palace, with Glasner also confirming his exit from Selhurt Park at the end of the season.