RB Leipzig's managing director Marcel Schafer has dismissed claims that Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain target Yan Diomande will leave the club this summer. Schafer indicated that the Bundesliga side plans to extend the 19-year-old's contract as a reward for his rapid progress since joining from Leganes last year.
Leipzig's Stance on Diomande
Earlier this month, Liverpool communicated their willingness to bid up to £86 million for the Ivory Coast international after an impressive season in which he scored 12 Bundesliga goals. However, reports on Sunday evening suggested Diomande prefers a move to European champions PSG, and Leipzig would demand a fee closer to £112 million if they were to reluctantly sell.
In quotes given to German publication Bild on Monday, Schafer insisted Leipzig want to keep Diomande and are seeking talks over a new contract with his agency, Roc Nation Sports. “Our clear intention is: Yan Diomande will play for RB Leipzig next year,” Schafer said. “In principle, we still have a four-year contract and hold all the cards. Therefore, the current developments are primarily a recognition of his performance. Nothing more and nothing less. And if we can’t find a solution, then we can’t - but he’ll still have a four-year contract. So, to reiterate: Yan Diomande will remain a Leipzig player.”
Liverpool's Alternatives
With Diomande seemingly off the table, Liverpool are also assessing a potential move for PSG's Bradley Barcola as an alternative. The transfer saga highlights the intense competition for top young talent in European football.
