Liverpool are pushing to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, with the winger's representatives taking action to force a move. According to German publication Bild, Roc Nation, the agency representing the 19-year-old Ivorian, has urged RB Leipzig to accept Liverpool's offer of €100 million (£86.7 million). The Bundesliga club rejected the bid, holding out for €120 million (£104.1 million) before considering a sale.
Diomande's Preference for PSG
Diomande, who is currently playing for Ivory Coast at the World Cup, previously expressed his admiration for Paris Saint-Germain. "Paris Saint-Germain is a team I've loved since I was a child. My father supports Paris Saint-Germain, and it's a team I admire as a football fan," he said. "It would be a pleasure for me to come and play at Paris with one of the biggest clubs... It's always a pleasure to come here also because with French being spoken, I think adapting wouldn't be difficult. But why not?"
Despite his comments, Liverpool remain confident of securing his signature, with manager Andoni Iraola keen to strengthen his squad. The Reds have already signed Victor Munoz this summer and will welcome Jeremy Jacquet following a £55 million deal agreed under former boss Arne Slot.
Cody Gakpo's Message to Iraola
Cody Gakpo has sent a clear message to Iraola about his preferred role after starring for the Netherlands at the World Cup. The 27-year-old scored twice and provided an assist in a 5-1 victory over Sweden, taking his tally to five goals across his last two World Cup tournaments. When asked about the difference between his club and international form, Gakpo hinted at a lack of freedom at Liverpool.
"A good question. Obviously it's a little bit different. It's different where the coach wants me to be, the freedom that I have," Gakpo said. For much of the season, he was deployed on the left flank, with the inside channel occupied by Hugo Ekitike and occasionally Florian Wirtz. Under Ronald Koeman, Gakpo has been given a more central role closer to goal, and his comments suggest he wants similar freedom at Anfield.
Liverpool's Transfer Activity
Liverpool are far from finished in the transfer market. Iraola has hit the ground running, with the signing of Munoz already completed. The Reds are also targeting a new midfielder and a defender before the window closes. Diomande remains the top target, but negotiations with RB Leipzig are ongoing. The Ivorian's representatives believe a deal can be struck, despite the Bundesliga side's high valuation.
With Diomande's future still uncertain, Liverpool fans will be watching closely as the summer transfer window heats up. Iraola's first pre-season at Anfield is set to begin in July, and he will hope to have his squad ready for the upcoming campaign.
