Liverpool welcome high-flying Leeds United to Anfield in the Premier League on New Year’s Day.
The Reds have endured a mixed campaign so far, starting off superbly before a dismal run of form throughout October and November.
At present the Merseyside outfit sit fourth in the top flight table, and manager Arne Slot will be desperate to see his side pick up all three points against the Whites on Thursday in order to stay in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
Now, on the eve of the January transfer window, it has emerged that Liverpool have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of a Bundesliga star.
According to TEAMtalk, German side RB Leipzig have ‘laughed off’ claims that Liverpool or Manchester United would be able to sign winger Yan Diomande for a fee of £50 million next year.
Diomande is currently playing for Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations (Photo: Sipa US/Alamy)
The report claims that both English sides are interested in the Ivory Coast international, who is currently representing his country at The Africa Cup of Nations.
Diomande joined Leipzig from Spanish side Leganes over the summer and has made a strong start to life in Germany, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 16 matches across all competitions.
The 19-year-old is fast emerging as one of the most talented attacking players in Europe, and his fine form has attracted interest from several clubs including Liverpool and Man United.
Despite this, the Ivorian is contracted to his current club until the summer of 2030 having signed a long-term deal when joining over the summer.
This puts the Bundesliga outfit in a commanding position, and it appears that they have no intention of allowing the winger to depart the club for £50 million in 2026.