Nottingham Forest have entered advanced talks to sign Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande for around £34m as Oliver Glasner pushes for a back-three signing. The 22-year-old Ivorian has impressed at international level and fits the Tricky Trees’ system, with Forest sitting 18th in the Premier League with zero points so far this season.
What’s happening with the Diomande deal?
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Forest are negotiating with Sporting CP and Diomande’s agents over a potential €40m (£34m) fee. Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed an approach has been made but stressed no formal bid has been submitted yet. Glasner is leading the pursuit, and Forest are willing to meet the €40m valuation rather than trigger Diomande’s €80m release clause.
Diomande, 22, starred for Ivory Coast at the World Cup and won two league titles with Sporting. Last season he averaged 6.2 defensive contributions per 90 minutes - the highest in his squad. Yet he remains untested in the Premier League, leaving some question marks over his readiness for England’s top flight.
Why Diomande fits Glasner’s system
Glasner favours a back-three setup, and Diomande’s profile matches that role. His pace, ball-playing ability and comfort in a three-at-the-back formation make him an attractive option for a Forest side that has shipped 0 goals so far this season but sits just one place above the drop zone.
The Tricky Trees have already lost Brazilian centre-back Felipe in pre-season, and Liverpool’s interest in centre-back Murillo adds urgency to the search. A deal for Diomande would shore up Forest’s defensive options ahead of a tough run of fixtures, including a home clash with Manchester United on 20 February 2027.
What comes next for Forest?
With Elliot Anderson’s exit to Manchester City, Forest also need a new central midfielder. Reports suggest they are now pushing hard for Celtic’s Arne Engels, adding another string to their summer bow. The club’s transfer activity is ramping up as Glasner looks to steady the ship after a shaky start to the campaign.
Diomande’s arrival isn’t guaranteed, but the pieces are falling into place. Forest’s hierarchy clearly rate him, and if the deal completes, it would mark a bold statement of intent from a club desperate to avoid an immediate return to the Championship. The next 48 hours could decide whether the Ivorian becomes a Forest player - or whether the window slams shut again.
