Liverpool transfer latest: Arne Slot discovers Yan Diomande 'truth' as £70m deal opens up
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Liverpool Transfer Latest: Arne Slot Discovers Yan Diomande 'Truth' as £70m Deal Opens Up
Liverpool FC are intensifying their interest in RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, with manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes urged by scouts to pursue the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international as a long-term successor to Mo Salah.[1]
Diomande, who has impressed with his adaptability, work rate, and high-intensity style aligning perfectly with Liverpool's demands, is monitored closely by the Reds' recruitment team. They have requested a meeting with his agent to discuss both January and summer possibilities, amid competition from Arsenal, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.[1]
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has delivered a clear verdict: Diomande is likely to leave Leipzig in summer 2026, dismissing a January exit as improbable. Romano stated, "If you ask me, ‘Do you think Yan Diomande will move in the summer?’ Yes," highlighting the teenager's expected departure from the Red Bull Arena.[2][4]
German reporter Christian Falk emphasized that Liverpool should be taken "very, very seriously" in the race for the versatile winger, capable of playing on either flank. His contract runs until 2030 with no release clause, but Leipzig could demand up to €100m (£88m-£104m)—a fee The Athletic’s David Ornstein confirms may be required.[1][2]
| Key Stats (FBref, past year) | Percentile |
|---|---|
| Shot-creating actions: 5.21 | 93rd |
| Pass completion: 81.9% | 88th |
| Blocks: 1.26 | 87th |
| Tackles: 1.7 | 85th |
Diomande's stock has risen after a stellar AFCON campaign, including a goal against Burkina Faso, a Bundesliga hat-trick vs. Eintracht Frankfurt, and starring in Leipzig's recent win over Freiburg. Seen as "destined for the Premier League," he could follow Leipzig alumni like Naby Keita, Ibrahima Konate, and Dominik Szoboszlai to Anfield, though his youth suggests adaptation time.[2][3]
While a £70m deal isn't confirmed, reports suggest Leipzig's high demands could open opportunities if Liverpool act decisively in 2026.[1][4]
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