New centre-back targets are popping up all the time for AC Milan, with Ousmane Diomande the latest to be linked.
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It looked as though Milan were closing in on making Antonio Silva their first defensive signing of the summer, that is until Benfica put up a wall forcing them to turn to other targets. It seems the budget is there though to sign a starter-level player, but who might it be?
Diomande: Milan’s big move?
According to Tuttosport (via MilanVibes), the 22-year-old has a release clause of around €80m. He has been monitored for a long time by Milan’s scouting network and although it would take a serious investment, the directors seem willing to try.
The plan is to sign two centre-backs, and the first is a big name who would immediately strengthen the defence and lead the new era. The second will be in the coming weeks, when there is a departure, potentially for Fikayo Tomori.
From this perspective, Diomande would be that big splash. He is physically strong, quick, decisive in cutting out danger, dominant in the air and capable with his feet. In short, he is the kind of all-around centre-half that Amorim likes to have in his three-man defence.
Diomande rose to prominence after a loan with Mafra in Portugal’s second division. At Sporting CP, he has twice been named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year, including under Amorim’s tutelage in 2023-24 when they won the league.
At international level, Diomande won the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Ivory Coast in 2023. He is hoping to get opportunities for the Ivory Coast at the World Cup, as a further showcase for his obvious talent.