Manchester United continue to be linked with RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande, but his arrival at Old Trafford would threaten Shea Lacey’s pathway.
Reports this week claim that Manchester United could strike an early deal for Yan Diomande in the upcoming summer transfer window.
United scouts have watched Diomande in action this season, and he has lit up the Bundesliga with 10 goals and seven assists in 26 appearances.
There is no denying the 19-year-old is a huge talent, but splashing a big fee for his signature seems reckless when United have Shea Lacey making great progress at Carrington.
Red Bull Leipzig winger Yan Diomande in action.
Photo by Ronny HARTMANN / AFP via Getty Images
Should Yan Diomande be Man Utd’s top winger target this summer?
Yan Diomande statistics from the 2025/26 season.
Credit: Getty Images.
Shea Lacey progress would be halted by Yan Diomande
Interim head coach Michael Carrick confirmed United want a left winger this summer, and Yan Diomande has played in that position for Leipzig.
However, Diomande is better on the right wing and his statistics this season prove it – all his goals have been scored off the right.
Not only do United already have Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo competing for the right-wing position, but Lacey has enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2025/26 and will want to continue fighting for a first-team spot.
More United News
If United brought in Diomande, it is hard to see how Lacey can make his way back into the side, even with Champions League football next season providing more minutes and opportunities.
How good can Shea Lacey become? Who does he remind you of?
Darren Fletcher has made a big prediction about Shea Lacey!
Fletcher / Lacey
Getty Images
Man United must prioritise Shea Lacey, he can be generational
Under Darren Fletcher, Lacey impressed as a substitute, bringing energy and excitement off the bench against Burnley and Brighton.
The young winger is yet to return to first-team action since his red card against Brighton.
But Lacey is one of United’s most promising talents, and he has already shown glimpses of brilliance in the first team.
READ MORE: Man Utd academy chief says what Shea Lacey is doing with Ruben Amorim at Carrington is ‘massive’
When Ineos are shopping for wingers this summer, they must make sure the new arrival prefers playing on the left, where they won’t stop Lacey’s progress.
Diomande is a huge risk, and his best performances have come on the right flank. United do not need another player in that area.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best United content each week direct to your mailbox