Liverpool, under new manager Andoni Iraola, are continuing their pursuit of Yan Diomande, with a potential transfer fee of €100 million being discussed, following recent comments from RB Leipzig manager Martin Demichelis.
The move comes after Mohamed Salah’s departure from Anfield on a free transfer, leaving a void in Liverpool’s attacking options. Diomande, 19, enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga with Leipzig, quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young talents.
Despite Leipzig initially appearing resistant to selling Diomande, hoping to secure him to a new contract, Demichelis’s recent statements suggest a deal isn’t entirely off the table. He stated, “Yan has a contract and he has to come back, but in football, a lot can happen overnight” (via RBLive).
Sport Bild reports that Leipzig would only consider a sale if Diomande were immediately loaned back to the club for the following season. Liverpool are currently the only club to have submitted a formal bid, with their initial offer of €100 million, including €20 million in potential bonuses, being rejected.
Liverpool are also reportedly leading the race for Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain, according to Fabrizio Romano. The interest in Barcola could intensify should their pursuit of Diomande fall through. Romano stated that Liverpool’s interest in Barcola is “strong” and the player is “not untouchable” as he is not currently negotiating a new contract with PSG.
The future of Cody Gakpo at Liverpool has been the subject of speculation, but TalkSport reports that the club has informed Tottenham Hotspur that the Netherlands international is not for sale. This reaffirmation of Gakpo’s importance, combined with the openness from Leipzig regarding Diomande, indicates Liverpool remain committed to strengthening their wide attacking options.
Diomande currently plays as a forward or midfielder for RB Leipzig, with an Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) range of €33.1 million to €40.4 million. A successful transfer would significantly bolster Iraola’s squad as he begins his tenure at Anfield.
