Liverpool are preparing a significantly increased second bid for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, according to reports from several sources. The move comes after their initial offer of €100m (£87m, $116m) was rejected by the Bundesliga club. Diomande has become Liverpool’s primary target to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah, who departed Anfield earlier this summer after nine seasons.
Negotiations with Leipzig are proving challenging, with the German club reportedly determined to retain the Ivorian international. Sources suggest Leipzig may seek a fee exceeding the Bundesliga record set by Ousmane Dembélé’s transfer to Barcelona in 2017. Despite the difficulty, Liverpool remain confident of securing Diomande’s signature, though frustration is growing within the player’s camp regarding the length of the process.
Journalist Lewis Steele reported that Diomande’s representatives had anticipated a quicker resolution to the transfer. While they are now resigned to a potentially prolonged negotiation, they hope Liverpool will intensify their efforts. Steele suggested a more assertive approach from Fenway Sports Group (FSG), Liverpool’s ownership group, could expedite a deal.
Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola is expected to be heavily backed in the transfer market, having already overseen approximately £440m (€505m, $600m) in player investment last summer. Beyond Diomande, the club is also targeting reinforcements in multiple positions, including another winger, a striker, a central midfielder, and both full-back roles. However, Diomande remains the priority.
Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Liverpool are working diligently to convince Diomande to push for a move to Anfield, aiming to secure his commitment before submitting a further bid. Leipzig are attempting to persuade Diomande to sign a new contract, offering a significant salary increase and the opportunity to compete in the Champions League. Romano reports Liverpool are prepared to exceed their initial offer and are actively discussing contract terms with the player’s representatives. Should they fail to secure Diomande, the club has alternative targets identified, including a player at Brighton and a star from Paris Saint-Germain.
