LEEDS UNITED GO ABSOLUTELY INSANE! They’re BURSTING into a FRENZIED transfer war for a £17M+ MONSTER who makes Diomande look like a Sunday league player – Bids expected to go NUCLEAR
Leeds United are reportedly targeting a defender who could become the most expensive signing in the club’s history this summer.
The Whites have been linked with Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande, with reports suggesting a deal worth around £39 million could bring the Ivory Coast international to Elland Road.
Such a fee would surpass the £35.5 million Leeds paid for Georginio Rutter in January 2023.
While negotiations are still ongoing, it is believed personal terms have already been agreed with the 22-year-old.
Diomande has enjoyed success in Portugal, helping Sporting win two league titles in the last three seasons.
Although he featured only 17 times in Liga Portugal during the 2025/26 campaign, he remained a key figure in Europe, starting seven Champions League matches.
His experience at the highest level would undoubtedly strengthen Daniel Farke’s squad.
However, Leeds are also exploring alternative defensive options. According to SportsBoom, the Yorkshire club have joined the race to sign Parma defender Mariano Troilo.
Premier League rivals Fulham and Brighton are reportedly preparing bids worth up to £17 million, though Parma are expected to demand a significantly higher fee.
Leeds and Brentford are monitoring the situation closely and could make their own approaches during the transfer window.
Troilo may represent better value for money than Diomande.
Unlike the Sporting defender, the Argentine has already tested himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues, featuring regularly in Serie A during the 2025/26 season.
His defensive statistics were particularly impressive. Troilo outperformed Diomande in several key areas, especially in physical duels.
The Parma defender won 56% of his ground duels and 63% of his aerial contests, compared to Diomande’s 38% success rate on the ground. Those numbers suggest he could adapt well to the physical demands of Premier League football.
Both defenders are comfortable in possession, rarely giving the ball away and fitting the ball-playing style Farke prefers.
As Leeds aim to strengthen their squad and push towards European qualification, signing Troilo could prove a smarter and more cost-effective move than breaking their transfer record for Diomande.
