Sources: Crystal Palace ready to pounce on Ousmane Diomande deal

Crystal Palace are prepared to revisit their pursuit of Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Eagles are at risk of losing Maxence Lacroix, with the Frenchman locked in sustained talks with Chelsea, and are scouring the market for new defenders as a result.

The South London outfit are already well aware of Diomande, having previously considered the Ivorian as a potential replacement for Marc Guehi in each of the last two transfer windows.

Sources now say that Palace are ready to pounce on a deal for the 22-year-old if they receive an indication from Sporting that he could leave this summer.

Pierre Sage's side remain clear admirers of the young defender, but are facing competition from across Europe and the Premier League.

Diomande made 31 appearances for Sporting last season in all competitions, and is currently away at the World Cup with his country.

Crystal Palace to battle Leeds for Ousmane Diomande

Diomande has also emerged on the radar of Leeds United in recent weeks, as his reputation continues to build across Europe.

The Whites have identified him as a target to add further depth to their back three, with Daniel Farke demanding to be backed in the market this summer.

However, Palace's long-standing interest also remains, and they are ready to pounce on a deal if the chance arises.

Diomande has been a regular feature in the Champions League in the last two seasons, and Palace have European football of their own to tempt potential signings once again.

They have had their eyes on Diomande for several seasons now, and this could finally be the summer when they make their move, if Lacroix heads for the exit.

How much would Crystal Palace have to pay for Diomande?

Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that it will take a "huge fee" for anyone to sign Diomande this summer.

The Ivorian has a release clause set at £69million in his current contract, but recent reports have suggested that Sporting could entertain a sale at the £40m mark.

That is undoubtedly a lofty fee for any club to pay, but with Palace holding out for over £50m for Lacroix, they could be about to have money to spend.

Diomande is among the names that they are considering as a possible replacement, but it remains to be seen whether they will need to make a move.