Nottingham Forest’s Ousmane Diomande Transfer Deal in Doubt

By the Editorial Team · Friday, August 7, 2026

Nottingham Forest's attempt to sign defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon for £35 million has stalled, putting the transfer's completion in doubt. With only midfielder Xaver Schlager confirmed as a new signing so far, Forest faces uncertainty in strengthening their squad before the transfer window closes.

Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of defender Ousmane Diomande has encountered a significant obstacle, casting doubt over the completion of the transfer. The club had been close to finalizing a £35 million agreement with Sporting Lisbon for the 22-year-old centre back, but negotiations have reportedly stalled.

Manager Oliver Glasner, who identified Diomande as a key target, previously sought to sign the player while managing Crystal Palace last summer, though that move did not materialize. It remains unclear whether Forest can revive the discussions before the close of the transfer window.

In addition to Diomande, Nottingham Forest is reportedly interested in acquiring Tijjani Reijnders from Manchester City. However, so far this summer, the club’s only confirmed signing is Austrian midfielder Xaver Schlager. Schlager, 28, joined Forest on a free transfer after departing RB Leipzig and has prior experience working with Glasner during their time together at Wolfsburg.

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