Liverpool are reportedly accelerating their pursuit of RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande, looking to beat Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur to his signature.
Spanish outlet Fichajes reports that new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has identified Diomande as his primary target to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah’s departure.
Salah’s exit has left Liverpool without a specialist right-wing option, with Federico Chiesa capable of providing cover but having struggled for regular game time under previous boss Arne Slot.
Iraola was appointed Liverpool manager following the club’s decision to part ways with Slot, despite the Dutchman delivering the Premier League title during the 2024/25 campaign.
The Merseyside club endured a disappointing follow-up season, prompting the change in management and a significant rethink of recruitment strategy heading into the new campaign.
Diomande has attracted widespread attention after strong Bundesliga form with Leipzig and a notable World Cup debut for the Ivory Coast against Ecuador, which prompted both United and Tottenham to send scouts to watch him.
Despite the interest from Old Trafford and north London, Fichajes claims Liverpool are currently the frontrunners in the race to secure the 19-year-old winger’s services.
Leipzig are in no hurry to sell Diomande, whose contract runs until 2030, and have placed a £100m price tag on the player to deter potential suitors.
Liverpool have reportedly lined up Paris Saint-Germain forward Bradley Barcola as a potential alternative should their pursuit of Diomande ultimately prove unsuccessful.
Diomande is described as a right-footed, skillful winger who can operate on either flank, combining pace, strength, and technical ability with a strong work rate off the ball.
His versatility and productivity at such a young age have underlined his enormous potential, with many believing he could develop into one of the best forwards in world football.
Whether Liverpool can convince Leipzig to part with their prized asset for a significant outlay this summer remains to be seen as the transfer window heats up.