RB Leipzig manager Ole Werner has expressed his desire to keep Yan Diomande at the club, acknowledging the significant interest the young winger is attracting from across Europe. The 19-year-old enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga, directly contributing to 19 goals, and has quickly become a key player for Leipzig.
Werner highlighted Diomande’s importance to the team, stating he is “a really important player” and “an excellent player who everyone here enjoys working with.” He acknowledged the inevitability of external interest given Diomande’s performances but emphasized the player’s current contract and apparent contentment at the club. Leipzig secured Diomande from Spanish side Leganés last summer, triggering his €20 million release clause after he had only made ten first-team appearances for the Spanish club.
The club’s qualification for the Champions League for the 2026/27 season is being viewed as a key factor in potentially retaining Diomande’s services. Werner believes the opportunity to compete at the highest level will aid the Ivorian’s continued development. He stated that the summer transfer window will reveal how the situation unfolds, but expressed the collective hope that Diomande will remain with Leipzig.
Werner also addressed the club’s recent history of developing and selling players for substantial profits, referencing the departures of Benjamin Šeško, Xavi Simons, and Loïs Openda last summer. He stressed the importance of stability and avoiding a similar upheaval in the upcoming transfer window, emphasizing the need to build upon the framework established this season. The manager hopes to continue nurturing the club’s promising young talents.
Werner admitted to being surprised by the consistency of Diomande’s performances, particularly given it was his first full season in professional football. While the club anticipated Diomande’s potential upon his arrival, the speed at which he adapted and excelled exceeded expectations. Reports now suggest Diomande’s value has risen significantly, with a potential transfer fee exceeding €100 million being discussed.
