Arsenal have already made bid to sign Ivorian star

Arsenal have already made a bid to sign Ivorian defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon, according to Record.

The Gunners were first interested in signing the 19-year-old from Midtjylland in January, but Sporting won the race for him.

It is now revealed that the club made a renewed approach in the summer, but their €35m offer was rejected by Sporting.

The Portuguese giants are expecting more interest in the defender and they could wait until next summer to sell him.

Meanwhile, talks are currently underway between Sporting and Diomande over a new contract with an improved salary.

Diomande has a €80m release clause in his contract. It is unlikely to be altered even if he signs another long-term deal.

Arsenal are currently loaded with central defenders, but manager Mikel Arteta is eyeing heavy and quality competition.

Diomande would be a fine acquisition for the club, considering his aerial and physical presence as well as his fine passing.