United face huge spanner in works as Spanish giants enter race for star who could “rejuvenate” defence – report

Real Madrid have set their sights on Manchester United defensive target Ousmane Diomandé.

The Red Devils are in the market for modern, pacy defenders that can fit into Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 formation.

One of the players they have been linked to is Diomande, who played under the Portuguese coach at Sporting Lisbon.

It has previously been reported that Amorim has already identified the Ivorian as a player who could help fix United’s leaky defence.

It has also been stated that United would be willing to pay €60 million to secure the services of the centre back ahead of serious competition.

Fichajes report that there could soon be a major spanner in the works for United or any other club interested in the 21 year old.

The Spanish outlet claims that “Real Madrid have set their sights on Ousmane Diomandé, a young centre-back for Sporting de Portugal, as part of their search for a reliable reinforcement for the backline.”

The defender has stood out for his “solidity and leadership” and this has led numerous clubs to sit up and take notice of his progress, even the current European champions.

The transfer is not seen as a simple one, however. Sporting has set its price at €60 million but that figure could swell to €80 million if the interest of clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Manchester United intensifies.

“His profile, characterised by a great ability to anticipate, firmness in individual duels and a good ball output, fits with the current needs of Real Madrid” and who could “rejuvenate” the defence.

Nonetheless, according to the report, Sporting Lisbon are in no mood to make life easy for any club chasing the player and are in a strong position regarding negotiations.

Diomande has played 27 matches in all competitions this season and has been a vital part of the team’s defence.

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