Arsenal willing to return for Ivorian star next summer

Arsenal are willing to return with a fresh bid for Sporting defender Ousmane Diomande next summer, according to Record.

The Gunners signed a new centre-back in Jurrien Timber earlier this summer, but he picked up a serious injury on his debut.

Despite this, they did not land a replacement. They were keen on Diomande, but their €35m bid was not enough to sign him.

It is now reported that the club have promised to return for him next summer and they could make a significantly higher bid.

Diomande currently has a €80m release clause in his contract, and Sporting could hold out for around €60m to sell him.

The 19-year-old has made huge strides with Sporting after his move from Norway at the beginning of the calendar year.

Arsenal were also keen on landing his services back then, but Diomande chose to join Sporting, who assured him minutes.

The youngster recently made his Ivory Coast debut against Lesotho.