Newcastle United target changes agent amid £68m transfer links - Chelsea and Liverpool also interested

Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande has changed agents amid reported interest from Newcastle United.

That is according to Portuguese outlet Record, who claim the player’s new representatives, ROOF, have connections in Germany and England. His former agent, Luis Cassaiano Neves, previously called Sporting the “ideal club” for him to develop at.

Diomande has emerged as one of the continent’s brightest prospects at centre-back in recent seasons. The Ivorian international made 26 league appearances as Sporting stormed to the title.

While striker Viktor Gyokeres earned most of the plaudits, Diomande also put himself in the shop window for a potentially seismic move. Newcastle are one of several Premier League clubs reportedly chasing his signature.

Liverpool and Chelsea have also been linked with the 20-year-old in recent months as they prepare for summer rebuilds. However, his reported £68million release clause is likely to repel English interest - especially from the Magpies.

Toon chiefs must be meticulous with their spending in an FFP/PSR-dominated climate and Diomande remains a relative novice at the top level. Newcastle are, however, thought to be in the market for a defender.

That is despite confirming Lloyd Kelly’s arrival on a free transfer - set to be completed on June 30. Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles suffered long-term ACL injuries at the back end of last season - leaving Eddie Howe light in defence.

Switching agents could be the clearest sign yet that Diomande plans on ditching the Portuguese giants. As it stands, he is contracted to Sporting until 2027 but earns just £8,000 per week.