Leeds United could have difference maker in Ousmane Diomande, Ruben Amorim to thank

Leeds United appear to be looking to bring in Ousmane Diomande from Sporting in a transfer that makes total sense.

Diomande has impressed in the Portuguese top flight for the past four seasons now and could be on his way to the Premier League.

Reports on Monday suggest Leeds are one of the clubs interested in signing the 22-year-old this summer.

He will not come cheap, however, as Sporting are said to be quoting a fee of around £43million for his signature.

While that is a massive sum of money, the deal itself would certainly enhance Daniel Farke's starting line-up next season.

Ruben Amorim helped develop Ousmane Diomande

Diomande arrived at Sporting in 2023 after catching the eye at a young age with Danish side Midtjylland.

Former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is credited with making the Ivory Coast international the player he is today.

Amorim wasted no time in using the youngster when he arrived at Estadio Jose Alvalade and that faith was justified.

The Portuguese coach is on record as bigging up Diomande's talents from a young age.

Now 22, Diomande has experience under his belt of Champions League football, international football and Portuguese domestic football.

It goes without saying the fee mentioned is higher than what Leeds would like to pay, but all the scouting reports are very positive.

Diomande is very athletic and has the ability to get back and cover, while he is also comfortable in possession.

The centre-back also ranks highly in terms of tackling ability and his composure at the back.

Next stage of Daniel Farke revolution is here

Farke guided Leeds into the Premier League at the second attempt and kept them there last season.

Now, the aim is to push on and become an established top-flight side again.

In order to do that, Leeds must evolve slightly. It means certain players who did not let themselves down last season will have to be upgraded on.

Diomande slotting into the heart of defence, with a new goalkeeper behind him and possibly another new central midfielder, would tick that box.

It is harsh to say certain players need to be fazed out, but that is the brutal reality of football at the highest level.

Amorim certainly saw something in Diomande and he has lived up to the hype so far.

There is no reason why he cannot now continue his trajectory by joining Leeds and blowing away the Premier League.