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Leeds United are continuing their pursuit of Ousmane Diomande, even though Sporting Lisbon have made it clear they are not prepared to sell the defender. The Yorkshire side have reportedly reached out to the player’s representatives as they explore options for a potential transfer.

Diomande joined Sporting Lisbon in January 2023 from Danish outfit FC Midtjylland for a fee of €7.5 million, signing a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Portuguese champions. Since his arrival, the Ivorian centre-back has been instrumental in helping Sporting secure back-to-back domestic league titles.

During the most recent Liga Portugal campaign, the 22-year-old endured a spell on the sidelines due to injury but still managed to feature in 17 matches and register one assist. His performances have consistently attracted the attention of Premier League clubs.

Last summer, Crystal Palace showed interest in the defender but were unwilling to meet Sporting’s asking price. Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Manchester United had also previously monitored his situation, though none of those pursuits materialised into bids.

Now, Diomande remains with Sporting Lisbon but has once again emerged as a transfer target, this time for Leeds United, who are keen to bring him to Elland Road. However, Sporting are reportedly determined to hold on to their prized asset and are expected to resist Leeds’ advances.

According to Portuguese sports publication A Bola, Leeds have already made contact with Diomande’s camp to discuss the possibility of a move. The club are aware that Sporting are not currently interested in selling but are ready to make a significant financial offer in an attempt to change their stance.

Reports suggest that Leeds could table an offer worth €40 million plus €10 million in potential add-ons, bringing the total value of the deal to around €50 million. The next step for the English side is expected to be submitting a formal proposal to Sporting Lisbon, who are keen to retain Diomande for at least another season.

The defender’s current contract includes a release clause set at €80 million, further underlining Sporting’s strong negotiating position as Leeds push to secure his signature.