Chelsea, Tottenham pursue £42m transfer for Semenyo

Chelsea and Arsenal are both actively pursuing a deal for 21-year-old defender Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon, with hopes of negotiating a fee lower than his €80 million release clause. Reports suggest the London clubs believe they can settle on an initial fee of around €50 million with add-ons. Chelsea's need for defensive reinforcements has grown as inconsistent performances have plagued their current center-backs, making Diomande a key target for manager Enzo Maresca. Additionally, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur are also interested in AFC Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, with both clubs prepared to offer significant sums to secure his signature. Semenyo has impressed this season, but his high valuation and competition from other clubs may complicate the transfer. As Chelsea strategizes for the upcoming transfer window, the focus remains on bolstering their squad to compete effectively in the league.