Liverpool are reportedly keen on completing the signing of RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande before the 2026 World Cup has got underway.
Rumours continue to link Diomande with a move to Anfield this summer, with a recent claim from journalist Florian Plettenberg suggesting that he is the Reds’ No.1 option to replace Mohamed Salah:
“Yan Diomandeis now Liverpool’s top target to replace Mo Salah, with the move approved by all LFCdecision-makers. Concrete talks are ongoing with his new representatives at Roc Nation Sports, although no agreement has been reached yet and the clubs have not entered negotiations.
“RB Leipzig are keen to adjust his salary and extend his contract. PSG, led by Luis Campos, are also in the race and have already held a meeting with his agents.”
Now, Graeme Bailey has provided a new update on the situation on X, saying Liverpool like Diomande so much that they want to sign him before the World Cup starts on June 11th:
“Liverpool are stepping up their pursuit of highly-rated RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande, with sources telling @TEAMtalk that talks are progressing as the Reds look to strike an agreement ahead of the World Cup.”
Can Yan Diomande be Liverpool’s next star attacker?
At 19, Diomande remains a work in progress, but the level of Liverpool’s consistent interest in him and the fact that they feel he can fill the void left by Salah show what a talent he is.
The Ivorian is already delivering good end product – something young players can struggle with – registering 21 goal contributions in just 32 appearances for Leipzig, and scout Jacek Kulig has said this about him:
“One of the best players in Germany. Wanted by Europe’s elite clubs. An unbelievable rise in just over a year. What a player.”
If Liverpool can strike a deal for Diomande before the World Cup is underway, it would feel like a bonus, ensuring they get key business done before his stock potentially rises with the Ivory Coast at the tournament.
Replacing Salah is going to be incredibly hard, but the 19-year-old is a special young footballer who could mature into a future superstar at Anfield.