Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are both in the race to sign Ivory Coast international Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig this summer.
Diomande joined Leipzig from CD Leganes last year and enjoyed a breakout Bundesliga season, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists in 33 appearances.
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The 19-year-old is viewed as one of the most promising young attackers in Europe, with several top clubs monitoring his development.
His previous comments about Liverpool earlier this year also attracted attention, further fuelling speculation over a possible move to Anfield.
He said: “I want to play at Anfield, I want to play for Liverpool. I’m a big fan of Liverpool. I’m a big fan of Liverpool because my father’s dream is to see me play at Anfield. So that’s my dream. You know, to fulfill my father’s dream is a dream for me too.
He later rowed back on those comments, clarifying that he remains focused on his current club. “People made it out to be my dream club. But first and foremost, it’s my dad’s favorite club. It was always his great wish to see me play there someday because he loves the atmosphere at Anfield,” Diomande said.
“He always raved about Steven Gerrard. I was too young to see him play. We didn’t even have a TV at home for a long time. I have a lot of respect for Liverpool, but my dream club right now is Leipzig.”
Paris Saint-Germain are pushing strongly to sign Diomande after their recent Champions League success. According to Foot Mercato, the 19-year-old has verbally agreed to join PSG this summer, provided the clubs can reach an agreement over a transfer fee.
PSG have made significant progress in their pursuit, with Diomande viewed as a key addition to refresh Luis Enrique’s right side amid uncertainty over Kang-in Lee’s future.
However, Liverpool remain firmly in the race. The Premier League side see him as a priority target to potentially succeed Mohamed Salah, and Diomande is also tempted by a move to Anfield.
At this stage, the battle for his signature looks set to be a straight contest between PSG and Liverpool, with other interest, including from Bayern Munich, appearing less likely to materialise. RB Leipzig are in a strong negotiating position given the length of Diomande’s contract, which expires in the summer of 2030.