Liverpool remain optimistic they will complete the signing of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, even as negotiations drag on longer than expected and frustration begins to grow within the player’s camp.
The Premier League champions have identified the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international as their priority replacement for Mohamed Salah, who ended his nine-year spell at Anfield earlier this summer. However, persuading Leipzig to part with one of Europe’s brightest young talents has proven far from straightforward.
Liverpool’s opening offer, reportedly worth €100 million (£87 million), was rejected by the Bundesliga club, who remain determined to keep Diomande for at least another season. Leipzig believe the winger’s value could rise even further following his impressive performances at the World Cup and have even explored offering him a lucrative new contract.
Despite the setback, Liverpool are preparing an improved offer that is expected to exceed €100 million. Reports in Germany suggest the Reds could return with a package worth around €120 million, although even that may not immediately convince Leipzig to sell.
The prolonged negotiations have reportedly tested the patience of Diomande’s representatives. According to journalist Lewis Steele, those close to the player had hoped the transfer would already have been completed and are disappointed by the slow pace of discussions. Nevertheless, there remains confidence that an agreement can eventually be reached, even if it takes until after the World Cup.
Behind the scenes, Liverpool continue to focus on the player as much as the club. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that the Reds have spent months building a strong relationship with Diomande and his entourage, working to convince the winger that Anfield is the ideal destination for the next stage of his career. Liverpool believe securing the player’s full commitment will strengthen their position during negotiations with Leipzig.
Liverpool’s confidence has also been boosted by reports that Paris Saint-Germain have cooled their interest after deciding the overall cost of the deal would be too high. That development has effectively left the Reds as the frontrunners for Diomande’s signature, provided they can satisfy Leipzig’s financial demands.
The winger enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Germany before carrying his form onto the international stage. His pace, creativity and ability to play on either flank have made him one of the most sought-after young attackers in Europe, explaining why Liverpool view him as the ideal long-term successor to Salah.
While Diomande remains Liverpool’s first choice, the club are keeping contingency plans in place. Alternative targets, including Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh and Paris Saint-Germain’s Bradley Barcola, continue to be monitored should negotiations with Leipzig ultimately collapse.
For now, however, Liverpool have no intention of walking away. With personal terms reportedly close to being agreed and the player keen on the move, the Reds believe the transfer remains achievable despite Leipzig’s firm stance. The next offer could prove decisive in determining whether one of the summer’s biggest transfer sagas finally reaches a breakthrough.
