Kicker reports that Union Berlin are hoping to sign AJ Auxerre defender Sinaly Diomandé. The Bundesliga outfit finds itself severally short-staffed in central defense heading into the new season. Union presently consider a €4.5m purchase of the Ivorian international, who has also been linked with Everton.
Diomandé currently maintains a €5m estimated market value, but could be procured for around €4.5m. Union are expected to lose high-value centre-backs Danilho Doekhi and Diogo Leite before the transfer window closes. The pair could net the Köpenick club upwards of €30m.
Diomandé has contested 95 Ligue 1 fixtures for Auxerre and Olympique Lyon. He only just moved to Auxerre on a free transfer from the Les Gones last summer. Last year, the 34-year-old scored three goals and provided two assists in 23 French first division appearances.
As Diomandé sits on a contract valid until 2027, a loan deal could also conceivably be an option. At the moment, it’s unclear as to whether the Bundesliga, Premier League, and Ligue 1 clubs are currently considering such an arrangement.
GGFN | Peter Weis
