The reigning Premier League champions could make the dreams of one of Europe's brightest talents come true
Arne Slot gestures thumbs up
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot could yet dip into the market(Image: Oli SCARFF / AFP via Getty Images)
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While Liverpool may be quiet on the January transfer front, it seems the Premier League champions could be gearing up for summer action. Arne Slot's team have yet to make significant moves in the winter transfer window, with only 18-year-old Mor Talla Ndiaye joining the ranks, despite long-term injuries to Alexander Isak and Conor Bradley.
The Reds are certainly in need of a boost following a disappointing 1-1 draw at home against Burnley, which resulted in their fourth consecutive league stalemate. Despite maintaining their fourth-place position amidst a poor run of results, fans are becoming increasingly frustrated with the lacklustre performances.
Despite the hefty £450million spent by Liverpool last summer, there are still key positions that require strengthening, with gaps in Slot's squad clearly visible. With less than two weeks until the transfer window closes, we examine a potential attacking addition as the Reds may look overseas to strengthen their defence.
Transfer 'truth' about attacker
Yan Diomande may have fewer than 30 senior appearances under his belt, but that hasn't dampened the buzz around the young star. The 19-year-old moved to RB Leipzig last summer from La Liga side Leganes in a £17m (€20m) deal.
Having only played 16 games for the Bundesliga team, Diomande has already scored seven goals and provided three assists. The Ivory Coast international is reportedly attracting interest from across Europe, including Liverpool.
Yan Diomande controls the ball
Yan Diomande is reportedly linked with a move to Liverpool(Image: Boris Streubel/Getty Images)
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Halfway through his debut campaign in Germany, Leipzig chairman Oliver Mintzlaff made it clear he'd rather hold onto Diomande for longer than a single season. Yet, he acknowledged that financial realities ultimately dictate proceedings and the club must bring in funds.
Speaking to Sky Germany, Mintzlaff said: "You can't let him go after just one year. But the truth is that there are also other top clubs out there and we have to generate revenue."
The winger might be open to a switch to the Premier League heavyweights following his recent admission of supporting the club. German outlet BILD (via Sport Witness) quoted the Ivorian as saying: "I want to play for Liverpool. I'm a huge Liverpool fan. My dad dreams of seeing me play at Anfield!"
Possible £70m transfer
Defensive issues have plagued Slot this campaign due to injuries and performances from key players. With Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate's contracts expiring at the season's end and Giovanni Leoni sidelined until late 2026 following his ACL injury, Liverpool's defensive woes could prove detrimental next term.
Alessandro Bastoni of FC Internazionale warms up prior to the Coppa Italia Semi Final match between AC Milan and FC Internazionale
Alessandro Bastoni would command a huge fee(Image: Getty Images)
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A possible remedy could be securing Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni, who is reportedly open to departing the Italian club, according to TEAMtalk. The 26-year-old is tied to Inter until 2028 and the report suggests that any move for the Italy international would require a £70m fee.
Slot had the chance to observe Bastoni in action last month when his team secured a 1-0 win at the San Siro against the Serie A outfit. It was Bastoni who conceded the late penalty that Dominik Szoboszlai converted after fouling Florian Wirtz.
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