Oliver Glasner is looking to strengthen his Nottingham Forest squad this summer and a new defender has emerged
Nottingham Forest have set their sights on Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande, according to reports in Portugal.
Oliver Glasner is eyeing up signings for his squad at the City Ground this summer after replacing Vitor Pereira. Midfielder Xaver Schlager is set to sign, while a second bid for Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall is expected.
Forest are somewhat light in central defence with Murillo returning from injury and interest in Jair Cunha. The position is one that is expected to be strengthened and Diomande is said to be on their radar.
Record Portugal have reported that the Ivory Coast international is expected to leave Sporting this summer. The 22-year-old joined the club from FC Midtjylland in 2023 and has been linked with a big-money move to the Premier League since.
The report states that Sporting are demanding a fee of €60million (£52.4m) for the defender. Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Leeds United have also been mentioned as possible destinations this summer.
AC Milan are reportedly one of the European giants also considering a move, with Ruben Amorim having previously worked with the young centre-back.
Record claim that Diomande, who is still enjoying his summer holiday before returning to pre-season, is a top target for Forest this summer and discussions have been held between the two clubs. However, there has been no official offer yet.
Murillo missed the weekend’s win over Notts County and Glasner provided an encouraging update on the Brazilian’s situation. “He is already training and doing good rehab sessions, but now it is increasing the intensity and getting him back to normal training,” the Forest boss said.
