Liverpool are frontrunners to land RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande this summer, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein. The Ivory Coast international has emerged as the Reds' leading target to replace Mohamed Salah, who is departing Anfield on a free transfer despite holding a year remaining on his contract.
The 19-year-old has impressed dramatically in his debut Bundesliga season, recording 13 goals and 10 assists for Leipzig. Those figures underscore why the German club acquired him from Leganes just one year ago for €20m—a bargain deal that now looks exceptional given his current valuation exceeds €100m (£86m).
Liverpool's Spending Ambition
Pursuing Diomande at such a price would make him Liverpool's third most expensive signing ever, behind Alexander Isak (£125m) and Florian Wirtz when add-ons are included (£116m). Yet Ornstein's reporting suggests the Merseyside club remain undeterred by the financial commitment required.
According to Ornstein, Liverpool have positioned themselves at the forefront of negotiations and made meaningful progress in convincing the player to join. "Liverpool have manoeuvred into a strong position with the player and if a deal looks plausible on that front, talks between the clubs can be expected to follow," the reliable journalist stated. RB Leipzig will demand in excess of €100m, though their position may weaken if they fail to secure Champions League football for the 2026-27 season, creating an opening for Liverpool to accelerate discussions.
Competition will be fierce, with European heavyweights expected to circle one of the continent's most coveted young talents. Liverpool's success in attracting Diomande to Anfield will define their attacking recruitment this summer as they plot life after Salah.
