Crystal Palace HubCrystal Palace are prepared to revisit their pursuit of Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande this summer, sources have told Football Insider. The Eagles are at risk of losing Maxence Lacroix, with the Frenchman locked in sustained talks with Chelsea.
What's at stake for Crystal Palace?
The South London outfit are already well aware of Diomande, having previously considered the Ivorian as a potential replacement for Marc Guehi in each of the last two transfer windows.
Who else is in the running?
Diomande has also emerged on the radar of Leeds United in recent weeks, as his reputation continues to build across Europe. The Whites have identified him as a target to add further depth to their back three, with Daniel Farke demanding to be backed in the market this summer.
| Category | Stat |
|---|---|
| League standing | 15th in Premier League, 45 pts, 11W-12D-15L from 38 games |
| Recent form | LDLDL |
| Last result | Crystal Palace 1-0 Rayo Vallecano (2026-05-27) |
What's the potential cost?
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that it will take a 'huge fee' for anyone to sign Diomande this summer. The Ivorian has a release clause set at £69million in his current contract, but recent reports have suggested that Sporting could entertain a sale at the £40m mark.
Crystal Palace are ready to pounce on a deal for the 22-year-old if they receive an indication from Sporting that he could leave this summer. With the Eagles holding out for over £50m for Lacroix, they could be about to have money to spend. Diomande is among the names that they are considering as a possible replacement, but it remains to be seen whether they will need to make a move.
