Arsenal sporting director Edu might be set to quit the Emirates Stadium but he could leave one important leaving present for Mikel Arteta. The Brazilian has reportedly completed the groundwork on a potential move for Sporting CP star Ousmane Diomande, who could be the perfect long-term defensive partner for William Saliba.
Edu is understood to be preparing to take a role with Evangelos Marinakis, the owner of clubs such as Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos. The former midfielder has overhauled the culture and squad at Arsenal, and will be a difficult figure to replace.
But a deal for Diomande could be the best way for Edu to put Arsenal on the right path as they head into a new era. The 20-year-old is one of Europe’s most highly-rated young centre-backs and the north Londoners will face huge competition for his signature.
According to Portuguese publication Record, Arsenal’s interest in Diomande is ‘serious’ and an enquiry for the star has already been made. The player has shone under Ruben Amorim, who may even want to take him to Manchester United when Sporting’s head coach makes that move on Monday.
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Diomande is an excellent defender who is hugely comfortable in possession. He is in the top 99th percentile for completed passes compared with other centre-backs in Europe’s top five leagues, and is in the top 97th percentile for passes attempted.
If he were to replace Gabriel at the heart of Arsenal’s defence, the Gunners would not lose their threat from set-pieces. All three of Diomande’s goals last season came from dead-ball situations and he would have more chances to score in a team that places so much importance on those scenarios.
An eight-time Ivory Coast international, Diomande already has vast experience in big matches. However, a deal could reportedly cost Arsenal £66million with Sporting staying firm to his release clause.
Arsenal have not been afraid to spend big on players who they believe will improve Arteta’s team, though.
If he joins, Diomande could even persuade Sporting team-mate Viktor Gyokeres to complete a switch with him. Arsenal have been desperate for an elite number nine this season having missed so many big chances in tight matches.
Edu’s exit could present some turbulence at the Emirates Stadium. But his successor will be able to cope better if they inherit an excellent playing squad that includes Diomande.
