Liverpool are considering alternative winger targets as negotiations with RB Leipzig for Yan Diomande stall, according to journalist Ben Jacobs. The club had a bid of €100 million (£86m) rejected for the 19-year-old and Leipzig are reportedly seeking €148 million (£128m) for his sale.
Jacobs reported that Liverpool are actively pursuing Matias Fernandez-Pardo of Lille, Said El Mala of Koln, and Yankuba Minteh of Brighton as potential alternatives. The club’s strategy is to demonstrate they have viable options should they fail to reach an agreement with Leipzig, providing leverage in ongoing negotiations. Liverpool do not intend to allow the transfer saga to extend into August, aiming to finalise their plans swiftly.
Recent claims of an increased bid of €116 million (£100m) were quickly dismissed, with sources indicating no such offer was made. The situation highlights the financial challenge Liverpool face in securing Diomande, who remains their primary target to fill the right wing position vacated by a potential Mohamed Salah departure.
Separately, there is speculation surrounding the future of Virgil van Dijk. Agent David Lavelle suggested the defender may leave Anfield before the final year of his contract, citing the arrival of a new manager in Arne Slot and potential interest from Juventus. Lavelle indicated a personal agreement between Van Dijk and Juventus exists, with a potential transfer fee of around €15 million (£13m). He also alluded to the possibility of other established players, such as Salah, potentially departing the club.
Further complicating Liverpool’s transfer activity, Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup has emerged as a potential target for both Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur. His transfer value has reportedly doubled to around €30-40 million (£26-34.5m) due to his recent performances. While Schjelderup has attracted interest from several clubs, a move to the Premier League this summer appears unlikely given Liverpool’s recent acquisition of Victor Munoz for the left wing.
