The Ivory Coast star has been a long-term target for manager Mikel Arteta and he has urged the hierarchy to land him.

Contact has already been made with the player's agent while Sporting have also been made aware of the interest.

It is now reported by Record that Sporting are willing to accept a lesser fee than the €80m release clause in Diomande's contract.

A fee of around €60m could be sufficient to do business. Arsenal are ready to meet the package to land the highly-rated youngster.

Chelsea are also keen admirers of the 20-year-old centre-back, but Arsenal currently have an advantage in the pursuit.

Diomande is likely to join a Champions League club. Chelsea won't be in the competition for the second straight year.

The centre-back is also keen on competing at the top for trophies. The Blues are currently in a period of transition.

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