Report: Crystal Palace eye £45m deal for young defender | OneFootball

Crystal Palace Eye Defensive Future with Ousmane Diomande Interest

Diomande Linked with Big-Money Move

Crystal Palace’s summer window is quickly gathering pace, and at the heart of their latest ambition is Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande. As reported by Ed Aarons of The Guardian, Palace are in talks with the Portuguese club over a possible £45 million deal for the 21-year-old Ivory Coast international — a move that would represent a seismic statement of intent from the South London club.

The towering defender has been a standout for Sporting since his arrival, with his physical presence, composure on the ball, and aerial dominance drawing comparisons to top Premier League defenders. A deal of this magnitude would eclipse many of Palace’s previous transfer outlays and would almost certainly hinge on the potential departure of Marc Guéhi, who is attracting strong interest from Liverpool.

Croatia’s Sosa Adds Depth and Experience

While Diomande would be a long-term investment, Palace have already made moves to strengthen the present. Borna Sosa’s £3m move from Ajax offers low-risk value with proven international pedigree. The 27-year-old, who reached the World Cup semi-finals with Croatia in 2022, is expected to challenge Tyrick Mitchell at left wing-back while also offering versatility on the opposite flank.

Photo: IMAGO

Sosa arrives after a season on loan with Torino and, despite having three years remaining on his Ajax deal, has been told by new boss John Heitinga that he is surplus to requirements. That decision opened the door for Palace to pounce. With Ben Chilwell returning to Chelsea, Sosa’s addition comes at the perfect time.

Defensive Transition Hinges on Guéhi Decision

Crystal Palace’s evolving back line now appears to hinge on Marc Guéhi’s future. The England international’s contract runs until next summer, and Liverpool are tipped as favourites to bring him in. Should Guéhi depart, it would free up funds — and arguably make a Diomande signing a necessity.

Though Guéhi has been instrumental for Palace, Diomande’s profile suggests he could be a ready-made replacement with higher upside.

Long-Term Vision Emerging

Beyond Diomande and Sosa, the arrival of goalkeeper Walter Benítez from PSV on a free further underlines a quietly productive window. Palace’s business so far shows a clear vision: build from the back, blend experience with youth, and prepare for life beyond key departures.

In a summer that could redefine their ambitions, all eyes are now on whether Palace can land their marquee target from Lisbon.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a fan’s point of view, the potential arrival of Ousmane Diomande is both exciting and bold. For a club often criticised for playing it safe in the transfer market, pursuing a highly rated 21-year-old for £45m suggests a new level of ambition. It’s the type of move that gets fans dreaming of progression beyond mid-table obscurity.

Many supporters see Guéhi’s likely departure as bittersweet. He’s been excellent, consistent, and a fan favourite. But if his exit means bringing in someone like Diomande — who has youth on his side and room to grow — it could be a smart long-term switch. There’s a growing belief that Palace need to evolve their defensive identity, and Diomande fits that bill.

Sosa’s signing, while under the radar, adds experience and versatility — something Palace have lacked on the flanks. If he pushes Mitchell to a higher level or even reclaims his 2022 World Cup form, that £3m fee could look like a steal.

Overall, Palace fans are cautiously optimistic. The squad appears to be moving in a progressive direction, blending veteran know-how with dynamic younger talents. Diomande would be the crown jewel in a summer that’s starting to feel more strategic than speculative.