Stoke favourites to sign Diagne

Stoke face competition from Reading and Middlesbrough for the signing of Modou Diagne.

According to a report in L’Equipe (via The Sun) the Nancy defender will be the subject of a three way battle after the French side were relegated from Ligue 1.

Despite being relegated Diagne had an impressive season at the back with a lack of goals leading to Nancy’s demotion.

Mark Hughes is on the look out for fresh defensive options with Diagne’s £3.5m valuation very affordable.

Complications have set in with Stoke’s attempt to sign Bruno Martins Indi on a permanent move from Porto, meaning a move for another defensive option will be imperative this summer.

Scouting reports on Diagne have been positive throughout the season with the 23-year-old having an impressive pedigree after winning youth caps for France and Senegal.

With their Premier League status secure Stoke are favourites to sign Diagne but may have to move quickly if Reading gain promotion through the play-off’s with Middlesbrough only likely to get involved if they sell Ben Gibson.