Everton is positioning itself as a strong contender for FC Midtjylland’s center-back, Ousmane Diao, as they approach the summer 2026 transfer window. According to Africa Foot, the Toffees have added the Senegalese defender, aged 21, to their shortlist and are keenly interested. Everton’s scouts made numerous trips to Midtjylland by December to monitor various players, but their attention has now shifted primarily to Diao.
Everton Targets Ousmane Diao as Summer Transfer Interest Grows
Midtjylland is receptive to selling, but they are asking for €15-20 million, a significant hike compared to Diao’s €8 million valuation on Transfermarkt. RB Leipzig already attempted to secure his services with a €12 million bid, which was swiftly rejected, showing that the Danish side is firm in their valuation. With Diao’s contract running until June 2029 and no release clause in sight, Midtjylland is in a strong position.
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The right-footed centre-back became a permanent fixture at Midtjylland in July 2024 after a spell at Portuguese side CD Mafra. He boasts impressive statistics for a young defender, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 75 appearances. His defensive contributions are equally remarkable, averaging 2.26 tackles, 1.31 interceptions, and 3.64 clearances per 90 minutes, while his team concedes only once every 137 minutes that he is on the field.
Despite these numbers, Diao remains unproven at the top level. Transitioning from the Danish Superliga to the Premier League is a significant jump, making a €20 million investment a gamble. His skill set has attracted attention from notable clubs, including Eintracht Frankfurt, Porto, Benfica, Fulham, Liverpool, Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth, all of whom are monitoring his progress.
Can Diao Solve Everton’s Defensive Issues?
PORTO, PORTUGAL – DECEMBER 12: Ousmane Diao of Midtjylland reacts during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between FC Porto and FC Midtjylland at Estádio do Dragão on December 12, 2024 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)
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With Jarrad Branthwaite facing another injury-prone season, and with veteran defenders James Tarkowski and Michael Keane getting older, Everton is in dire need of additional defensive options for the 2026/27 season. This makes Diao an appealing target. However, the club must be wise regarding the proposed price tag. At €15-20 million, the focus shifts from a proven Premier League asset to a bet on potential.
For an Everton squad that might be aiming for European competition, investing such a fee for an untested player poses risks. Diao has the necessary speed, passing ability, and goal threat, but the physical demands of the Premier League present a unique challenge.
Everton should aim to negotiate a deal closer to €10-12 million. This approach would allow them to nurture Diao as a long-term partner for Branthwaite, rather than relying on him as an immediate starter. Such a tactic seems the most strategically sound for the club.