Sporting CP push for Ibrahima Ba as Ousmane Diomandé replacement

The Portuguese champions are preparing an official offer for the FC Famalicão defender

Sporting CP push for Ibrahima Ba as Ousmane Diomandé replacement

Sporting CP have identified Ibrahima Ba as their priority target to replace Ousmane Diomandé, whose move to Nottingham Forest is considered to be in its final stages. The Portuguese champions are now accelerating their search for a new centre-back and are preparing to open formal negotiations with FC Famalicão.

Sporting prepare official bid for Ba

The Lisbon club are currently working on the structure of their proposal, which is expected to include a fixed transfer fee plus performance-related bonuses. An official offer is anticipated in the coming days as Sporting look to move quickly in the market.

Ba, 22, joined FC Famalicão in 2024 and has established himself as one of the club's key defenders. The Senegalese centre-back has impressed with his physicality, aerial dominance and composure in possession, making him a strong fit for Sporting's defensive system.

Diomandé exit accelerates Sporting's plans

Sporting's pursuit of Ba comes as Ousmane Diomandé edges closer to completing a transfer to Nottingham Forest. The Portuguese side have been planning for the Ivorian's departure and view Ba as the ideal successor in the heart of the defence.

Negotiations are expected to intensify over the next few days as Sporting aim to finalize the deal before Diomandé's exit is officially confirmed. The Portuguese champions want to avoid any gap in their squad ahead of the new season by securing their preferred replacement as quickly as possible.