Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool are among the clubs keeping a close eye on Yan Diomande after his breakthrough season with RB Leipzig.
The 19‑year‑old wide forward has been one of the standout young players in the Bundesliga since his £17.5m move from Leganés, scoring 9 goals in all competitions and adding seven assists to his name.
He has impressed with his pace, ability to beat his full‑back on the outside or cut inside, and his delivery in the final third. His form has put him in contention for Ivory Coast’s World Cup squad this summer and attracted interest from the Premier League, including Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester United, as well as Bayern Munich.
However, any potential transfer is facing a major stumbling block away from the pitch.
The Telegraph has reported that Diomande is at the centre of a dispute over who officially represents him and who has the right to negotiate his contracts and image rights. Earlier this month, Roc Nation, the agency founded by rapper Jay‑Z, announced that Diomande had signed with them, welcoming him publicly and adding his profile to their website alongside other high‑profile footballers.
Before that, though, Diomande had been represented by Maxidel Management, the agency run by former Leeds United winger Max Gradel.
Maxidel say they renewed their contract with the player on January 1 and later released a statement insisting Diomande “remains contractually bound” to them.
They claim to have lodged and had approved paperwork in Germany, Spain and England confirming they are his representatives until 2027, with an image rights agreement running until 2031 and an exclusive mandate to handle any sale.
Maxidel argue that any agreement made with another agency was done without proper procedure and have stated they will take all necessary legal steps to protect their rights. Roc Nation have not commented publicly on the details but are understood to believe they have signed Diomande legally.
Until this situation is resolved, it is likely to be a significant obstacle to any smooth summer move from RB Leipzig, including a possible transfer to Liverpool.
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