Liverpool is pushing to complete a deal for RB Leizig's Yan Diomande with a transfer timeframe now in place as the Reds accelerate moves ahead of the summer window
23:06, 30 May 2026
Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) looks on during match day 33 1.Bundesliga, RB Leipzig and St. Pauli, Red Bull Arena, Leipzig, Germany on May 09 2026. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Liverpool has set a timeline on securing a deal for Yan Diomande(Image: Getty Images)
Liverpool is looking to finalize a deal for Yan Diomande before the World Cup begins in less than two weeks time.
The winger has emerged as the club’s leading transfer target as the Reds search for a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah. Interest in the RB Leipzig winger has been well documented, and Sky Sports Germany reports that Liverpool is “pushing hard” to complete an agreement ahead of the tournament, underlining their intent to move quickly in the market.
Diomande is set to represent Côte d’Ivoire this summer in Group E, which also includes Florian Wirtz’s Germany. While the Ivorians do not begin their World Cup campaign in the United States until June 15, they face a pre-tournament friendly against France on June 4.
As a result, while Liverpool’s intention to secure a deal before the tournament is understandable, given that any standout World Cup performances could significantly increase his valuation, it may prove easier said than done.
A medical would still need to be arranged, likely requiring clearance from his national team setup, alongside final negotiations with both the player and Leipzig to reach full agreement within a tight timeframe of under two weeks.
Meanwhile, competition for the 19-year-old is expected to be fierce, with Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City also credited with long-standing interest. Leipzig, for its part, remains hopeful of retaining the winger and is understood to be prepared to offer a new long-term contract to keep him at the club.
It is widely reported that it would take in the region of $117 million (£85 million) to prise him away from Leipzig, despite the fact the winger does not have a release clause in his contract. However, Liverpool could have confidence in its negotiating position given the strong working relationship between the two clubs, who have completed multiple deals in recent years.
Yan Diomande (RB Leipzig) gestures during match day 33 1.Bundesliga, RB Leipzig and St. Pauli, Red Bull Arena, Leipzig, Germany on May 09 2026. (Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Yan Diomande is a primary target for Liverpool this summer(Image: Getty Images)
That established connection could prove significant if formal talks accelerate, with both sides traditionally maintaining open lines of communication in the transfer market.
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Diomande is viewed as a player who ticks multiple boxes for Liverpool, with the 19-year-old described as “unstoppable” by Leipzig manager Ole Werner. Primarily operating from the left wing, he was recently named Bundesliga Rookie of the Season after an impressive campaign.
Diomande registered 13 goals and nine assists in all competitions following his 2025 move to Leipzig from Leganes, quickly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most exciting young attackers. His versatility is a key attraction, with the teenager also capable of playing effectively on the right flank.
According to Paul Joyce, a potential player-plus-cash deal involving Harvey Elliott has been discussed, with the midfielder still not considered central to Liverpool’s long-term plans. As things stand, Elliott is expected to report for pre-season at the AXA Training Centre, although his long-term future at the club remains uncertain. However, with Arne Slot being sacked by Liverpool that could potentially change.