Diomande transfer: Amorim to get a reunion at Man Utd? Whisper+ verdict

Latest developments

• Sporting's Ousmane Diomande has spoken to Ruben Amorim about signing for Man Utd.
• United could beat Arsenal and Man City to the young defender's signature.
• The Ivorian has an €80 million release clause with the Portuguese club.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3.5/5): Believable given Sporting links

We can expect every highly-rated Sporting CP player to be linked with Manchester United for the next few transfer windows, now that Ruben Amorim has taken over at Old Trafford.

That is the case with Ousmane Diomande who, according to metro.co.uk, has spoken to his former boss about signing for the Red Devils, despite long-term interest from Man City and Arsenal. No source information has been given, but the chances of the pair at least having a discussion is highly plausible.

Value (3.5/5): High price to pay for youngster

Amorim may have convinced Diomande to come to the red half of Manchester, but United will be asked to pay at least €80 million – the release clause on Diomande's deal, which expires in 2027 – but possibly more, if they get into a bidding war with their rivals.

He may be highly-rated, but it is a lot to pay for a 20-year-old defender with no experience of a top-five league.

Suitability (4/5): Amorim will get the best out of him

With Diomande tearing it up at the back for Sporting's title-winning team, there is no doubt that Amorim knows how to get the best out of him.

A physical defender who has pace and can play the ball looks ideal for life in the Premier League, but the proof of the pudding will be in the eating.

Upgrade? (4/5): New boss needs defensive clear out

Man Utd currently have six centre backs on their books, but other than Lisandro Martinez, one could make a case for Diomande being an upgrade on any of them.

The new boss is unlikely to make Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans part of his plans, while the jury is still out on Matthijs de Ligt and Leny Yoro.

Logic (5/5): Perfect step up for Diomande

Diomande looks destined for one of the biggest clubs in Europe, and the chance for any player to make that step up with a manager who knows you well does not come around often.

United might not be able to offer a title challenge, like City and Arsenal, but they can offer a clear path to the first team.

Whisper+ verdict: 20/25

Arsenal and Man City will not want Amorim's links to the player scupper their intentions, especially as they have been tracking the player for a while, but hiring Diomande's old manager could be the trump card which makes a reunion the right move for the Ivorian.