Image Credits: Imago Images
Yan Diomande has quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young forwards in Europe this season, racking up an impressive 11 goals and 7 assists for RB Leipzig across all competitions in 2025/26.
His performances have not gone unnoticed – PSG, Chelsea, Arsenal, Bayern Munich, and Liverpool are all reportedly tracking the 19-year-old Ivorian, making him one of the most coveted teenagers on the continent heading into the summer window.
And speaking to Africa Foot, the Ivorian winger has explained that the interest from Liverpool and other top clubs is giving him “more motivation to work”:
“I’m here, and first and foremost, I’m healthy and working hard every day. Hearing these rumours about big clubs like PSG, Chelsea, Liverpool, and others interested in me gives me even more motivation to work. I keep smiling, stay upbeat, and keep pushing forward.”
“My job is on the pitch, and I’m fully committed to my current club. As for the rest, I have a team that takes care of everything; I don’t stress about it. I play for Leipzig and enjoy it,” Diomande explained.
The situation surrounding his future is anything but simple, however. Leipzig are holding firm on a €100 million asking price and have been in discussions with Diomande about a new improved contract – one that would come with a salary hike and the potential inclusion of a release clause.
Adding another layer of complexity is an ongoing legal dispute between his former agency, Maxidel Management – co-run by Ivorian legend Max Gradel – and his new representatives, Roc Nation Sports. Gradel’s agency insists Diomande remains contractually bound to them until 2030, and has referred the matter to CAS in Switzerland.
Until the dispute is resolved, any transfer negotiation involving the player risks being significantly complicated.
Liverpool, in particular, believe they hold a key advantage in the race. The Reds’ long-standing and well-documented relationship with the Red Bull group is seen internally as a crucial edge over rivals – most notably Manchester United, who are also reportedly keen.
Previous deals for Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai were both signed from Leipzig via release clause activations.
