Crystal Palace are reportedly exploring an ambitious move for £45 million-rated Sporting CP star Ousmane Diomande.
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Palace eye £45m-rated Diomande'Nurtured' by Amorim at Sporting CPEagles fighting Europa League battleFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The Telegraph claims Palace are considering a move for the 21-year-old following their first-ever FA Cup success. And with centre-back Marc Guehi entering the final year of his contract, the Eagles are keeping tabs on the young defender.
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The report adds that the Ivory Coast international, who could cost £45m ($61m), was 'nurtured' by United boss Amorim back when he was in charge at Sporting, and he is currently one of the most highly rated centre-backs in Europe. This comes at a time, however, when Palace may not be able to play in next season's Europa League, despite qualifying for it via their FA Cup triumph.
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BBC Sport reports that Palace are expected to have to wait until the end of June to find out if they can compete in next term's Europa League. They are in this situation as UEFA rules forbid individuals from having control of more than one club in the same competition. Palace co-owner, John Textor, has a majority stake in Ligue 1 side Lyon – who have also qualified for next season's competition. Therefore, Palace's place in the tournament is under threat due to Textor's Eagle Football group, which has a 45 per cent stake at Oliver Glasner's team and 90 per cent at Lyon.
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Palace are facing a vital few weeks as their ability to sign players may be impacted by whether or not they are allowed to play in next season's Europa League campaign, with the possibility of competing in Europe likely to attract a higher calibre of player.