Liverpool have expressed strong interest in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, though securing his signature will require patience and a significant financial outlay. The Reds are seeking a long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah, who is expected to depart Anfield at the end of the current season after nine years with the club, and sporting director Richard Hughes has identified Diomande as a prime target.
Initial contacts regarding a potential move to Merseyside were reportedly made in December, according to TransfersDaily’s Fraser Fletcher. However, RB Leipzig are reluctant to sell their prized asset, believing his value will increase with further development. The Bundesliga club are expected to demand a fee in the region of €100-120 million (£87-104 million, $116-140 million) for the 19-year-old.
Diomande recently impressed for Ivory Coast in their 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Ecuador, showcasing his dribbling ability and close control. Despite reports suggesting a deal with Liverpool is close, Ivory Coast’s national coach Emerse Fae has stated that all discussions regarding Diomande’s future will be postponed until after the World Cup. Fae revealed he had previously heard links to Paris Saint-Germain as well, adding, “For now, he will focus on the World Cup, and then afterwards, he can think about the rest of his career…”
To potentially lower the overall cost of the transfer, Liverpool are exploring the possibility of a player-plus-cash deal, with Cody Gakpo being offered to Leipzig in exchange. Sources also indicate that Diomande is receptive to a move to Anfield. Liverpool are simultaneously pursuing other winger options, including Bradley Barcola of PSG and Ayyoub Bouaddi of Lille, demonstrating their commitment to reinforcing the attacking line this summer. The potential arrival of Diomande, or another winger, would address a key area of need as Liverpool prepare for a new era following Salah’s expected departure.
