Forest close in on Ivory Coast defender Diomande

Forest close in on Ivory Coast defender DiomandeImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ousmane Diomande helped Ivory Coast reach the World Cup knockout stages for the first timeBySami MokbelSenior football correspondentPublished1 minute agoCommentsNottingham Forest are close to completing a deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande.The 22-year-old is viewed as a key target for new Forest boss Oliver Glasner, and talks have progressed in recent days.While a final agreement still needs to be reached, sources indicate a deal between the clubs is now close, with discussions at an advanced stage.Dembele has a £68.2m release clause but Forest are keen to land the Ivory Coast international for a lower fee.Glasner is a huge admirer of Diomande and tried to sign the central defender for Crystal Palace.Diomande has made more than 150 senior first-team appearances, including 15 appearances for his national team.Related topicsFootball TransfersFootballNottingham ForestPremier LeagueIvory CoastMore on this storyFind all the latest football transfers on our dedicated pagePublished12 April 2024