Forest sign Sporting's Ivory Coast defender Diomande

Nottingham Forest have secured the signing of young Ivory Coast defender Ousmane Diomande from Portuguese side Sporting, reportedly for a fee of £34 million. The 22-year-old has committed to a four-year contract with Forest, which includes an option for an additional year. Diomande expressed his excitement about joining the club, citing its rich history and motivation to play for such a prestigious institution. He is optimistic about achieving success this season and is eager to work with his new teammates and head coach.

New Forest manager Oliver Glasner has adopted a 3-5-2 formation and expects Diomande to partner Nikola Milenkovic and Murillo in a defensive three-man backline. With 15 caps for Ivory Coast and participation in the 2026 World Cup, Diomande has established himself as a seasoned international player. Prior to joining Sporting, he played for Olympic Sport Abobo in his native Ivory Coast and FC Midtjylland in Denmark, where he contributed to Sporting's consecutive league titles in 2023-24 and 2024-25. Diomande made 132 appearances for Sporting before his transfer to Nottingham Forest.

Glasner, who became Forest's manager recently, has long admired Diomande's experience for a defender of his age. Chief football officer George Syrianos praised Diomande's valuable experience in winning teams and his readiness to adapt to Forest's environment. Glasner considers Diomande a powerful and commanding presence in defense, excited about his potential to integrate well at the club. Diomande's signing comes after the acquisition of Austria midfielder Xaver Schlager on a free transfer in July.