With Arsenal showing genuine interest in Ousmane Diomande from Sporting CP, the gap between the offered amount and the release clause highlights the challenges Arsenal may face in securing the player.

Sporting's Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the Portuguese league football match between Sporting CP and SL Benfica at the Jose Alvalade stadium in Lisbon on May 21, 2023. (Photo by CARLOS COSTA / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS COSTA/AFP via Getty Images)
Sporting’s Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Portuguese league football match between Sporting CP and SL Benfica at the Jose Alvalade stadium in Lisbon on May 21, 2023. (Photo by CARLOS COSTA / AFP) (Photo by CARLOS COSTA/AFP via Getty Images)

Arsenal reportedly offered €35m to sign Sporting CP‘s Ousmane Diomande, but refused to meet his €80m release clause.

Sporting CP signed Ousmane Diomande in January 2023 from FC Midtjylland for just €7.5m (€12.5m with add-ons).

In his contract, they inserted an €80m release clause.

Over the summer, Arsenal were linked with a move, with speculation that the Portuguese side might lower their demands to turn a quick profit.

LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - AUGUST 5: Ousmane Diomande of Sporting CP in action during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and Sporting Lisbon at Goodison Park on August 5, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – AUGUST 5: Ousmane Diomande of Sporting CP in action during the pre-season friendly match between Everton and Sporting Lisbon at Goodison Park on August 5, 2023 in Liverpool, England. (Photo by Jess Hornby/Getty Images)

However, a bid of €35m from Arsenal for the centre-back was declined, even though the player is currently valued at just €10m.

A report from the Portuguese outlet, Record, states that Sporting’s coach Rúben Amorim initially faced scepticism when the club invested in the 19-year-old.

Yet, they now feel vindicated due to Arsenal’s keen interest and substantial offer.

Sporting, as per Record, remain confident in Diomande’s development and market value, given his stellar performance and significant contributions to the squad.

The Ivory Coast player’s contract runs until2027, and it’s still uncertain if Arsenal will renew their pursuit in the upcoming January window.