Liverpool winger target Yan Diomande has publicly addressed speculation linking him with a summer move to Anfield, as reports suggest the Reds could pay a club-record fee of £130million for the 19-year-old.
The potential transfer fee would surpass the £125million Liverpool paid for Alexander Isak last summer, according to reports. Liverpool officials have reportedly been in ‘almost daily contact’ with Diomande’s representatives since December, as reported by TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher.
Diomande enjoyed a productive season with RB Leipzig, scoring 13 goals and providing 10 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions. The club views him as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, though no departure for the Egyptian has been confirmed. RB Leipzig are reportedly keen to retain Diomande, valuing the Ivorian international at €100million (£86.2m). However, German outlet Sport Bild claims that add-ons could raise the fee to €150million (£130m).
Liverpool are one of several clubs capable of meeting the valuation, alongside Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain. Diomande acknowledged the interest from top European clubs, stating he is aware of the speculation and open to joining a ‘top club.’ He refrained from naming specific clubs, but emphasized his ambition to play at the highest level.
“I heard,” Diomande told SoFoot, referring to his reported valuation. “But I don’t know if it’s going to be okay for everyone to pay that. I’m not going to say Paris, Liverpool or Real [Madrid]. But it would be a good idea to play for big clubs. Everyone has ambitions and every day you want to go higher.”
TEAMtalk reported in April that a move to Liverpool holds ‘genuine appeal’ for Diomande, and personal terms are not expected to be a significant obstacle. The player expressed his willingness to embrace challenges and fight for his place in any team he joins, emphasizing his belief in hard work and faith. A successful transfer would represent a significant investment in Liverpool’s attacking options and signal their intent to remain competitive at the highest level.
