Arsenal linked with move for Lisbon defender

A report via Portuguese outfit Record has revealed that Arsenal have intensified their efforts to sign Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande.

The Gunners are said to have been monitoring the centre-back closely since his time at Midtjylland.

They were linked with moves for him last winter, but Sporting won the race for an initial fee of €8 million.

Again, Arsenal attempted to sign the Ivorian last summer with a €35m offer, but Sporting insisted on not accepting anything less than his current release clause of €80m.

Arsenal are set to return for his services this January window and Record claim that they have intensified their efforts as they prepare a fresh approach.

There are reports that the Gunners will have an emissary at the African Cup of Nations to closely monitor and give special attention to the games involving Diomande.

Arsenal’s recent defeat to Fulham has made the club decide to bring in new players in their attack and defence.