Nottingham Forest are locked in tense negotiations with Sporting CP over the transfer of centre-back Ousmane Diomande, with the 22-year-old’s participation in Friday’s pre-season friendly now in doubt. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 16th in Premier League, 44 pts, 11W-11D-16L from 38 games, recent form DLDWW.
What’s the latest on the Diomande deal?
Sporting CP continue to demand a guaranteed €40m (£35m) fee plus €5m (£4.3m) in bonuses for Diomande. Nottingham Forest’s latest offer is reported at €38m (£33m) up front with €4m (£3.5m) in add-ons. The impasse has left Diomande’s future uncertain, with Sporting manager Rui Borges yet to decide whether to include him in the squad for Friday’s match against Forest.
Why is Diomande’s selection uncertain?
Borges has acknowledged Diomande is likely to leave this summer but wants to give the defender a chance to say goodbye to fans on the pitch. However, the final decision on his inclusion hinges on the outcome of the ongoing transfer talks. The squad for the friendly will only be confirmed on Thursday, leaving Diomande waiting to see if he’ll feature.
What happens next?
If Diomande plays, it could be his final appearance for Sporting CP against the very club pursuing his signature. Alternatively, if the deal is finalised before kick-off, he might even make his Nottingham Forest debut against his former side. Record reports confidence that the remaining details will be resolved soon, but for now, the defender’s immediate future remains on hold.
