Paris Saint-Germain are set to end their pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, potentially opening the door for Premier League clubs Liverpool and Arsenal, according to reports. The move comes amid complications surrounding the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international’s representation.
Ivory Coast-based journalist Malick Traore reported on X that PSG will pass on signing Diomande “due to the complexity of the deal (image rights…),” and have instead identified Eli Kroupi as a new target. The situation is further complicated by a dispute over Diomande’s representation, with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation agency locked in a legal battle with Maxidel Management, a case currently before the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Until this issue is resolved, progressing any transfer will prove difficult.
This development has significant implications for several Premier League clubs. Arsenal, having missed out on Morgan Rogers who is set to join Chelsea, could turn their attention to Diomande. Bournemouth, however, face a renewed battle to retain Kroupi, with PSG’s interest intensifying. Liverpool, previously considered favourites to sign Diomande, now see their chances significantly increased, though a move for him was previously contingent on PSG signing the player.
Despite PSG’s apparent withdrawal, Fabrizio Romano suggests a deal is still possible this summer, stating that PSG had an agreement with the player for several weeks and are now attempting to reach an agreement with RB Leipzig. Romano also notes increased interest from other clubs, including Arsenal, who have made enquiries. However, the agency dispute remains a major obstacle for any potential transfer.
The dispute centres around Diomande’s representation, with Maxidel Management, founded by former Leeds United player Max Gradel, claiming they still hold the rights to represent the player despite Diomande’s announcement in January that he had switched to Roc Nation. Maxidel Management released a statement expressing surprise at the alleged parallel engagement with another agency and vowed to protect its rights through legal channels. PSG’s decision to pull out suggests they are unwilling to navigate these complexities, leaving Arsenal and Liverpool as potential suitors.
