Nottingham Forest close to deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande

Nottingham Forest are moving closer to completing a deal for Sporting Lisbon central defender Ousmane Diomande. Negotiations between the two clubs have progressed significantly in recent days, with discussions now at an advanced stage.

The 22-year-old Ivory Coast international is a primary target for new Forest boss Oliver Glasner. The manager is a long-term admirer of the defender and previously attempted to sign him during his time in charge of Crystal Palace.

While Diomande holds a £68.2m release clause, Forest are pushing to negotiate a lower fee for the player. Although a final agreement is yet to be reached, the club remains intent on finalizing the transfer.

Diomande arrives with considerable experience, having recorded over 150 senior first-team appearances, alongside 15 caps for the Ivory Coast national team.