Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has weighed in on the club's pursuit of RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande, warning that the Reds' previous big-money spending spree has not yet justified its cost. Diomande, a 19-year-old Ivory Coast international, is a top target for new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola this summer.
Carragher's Verdict on Diomande
Speaking to Sky Sports, Carragher praised Diomande's potential but cautioned against overpaying. "I thought he was fantastic in the first game of the World Cup. Less so in the second game, but still was a real danger," Carragher said. "I think what you'd be buying is potential, it's not what he is right now. He's a 19-year-old kid, a young man. But when you look at him physically, he looks like he's got all those attributes."
Carragher compared Diomande to Liverpool's former star wide men Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, noting the club's need for pace. "You think of the success Liverpool have had in the past with powerful, quick, wide men. You think of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, especially those two. He certainly looks like he's got those type of traits. That's a big thing that Liverpool lacked last season, pace in those wide areas."
Liverpool's £450m Warning
Liverpool have reportedly offered €100 million (£86 million) for Diomande, with suggestions RB Leipzig rejected the bid. Carragher pointed to the club's heavy spending in 2025, when they invested over £400 million on nine players including Alexander Isak, Florian Wirtz, and Hugo Ekitike. "Liverpool spent big last summer. Right now, a year on, we probably would say those players don't look worth it," Carragher warned.
The Reds have already completed one signing this summer, Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5 million. Jeremy Jacquet will also join from Rennes for £60 million after a January agreement. With Mohamed Salah set to leave later this summer, Liverpool are prioritizing a new forward, making Diomande a key target.
Diomande's World Cup Impact
Diomande has been impressing for the Ivory Coast at the World Cup, attracting interest from Paris Saint-Germain as well. Carragher acknowledged the teenager's attributes but stressed the risk. "Is he worth it? Time will tell," he said. "That looks like where they're going in the market."
Liverpool's pursuit of Diomande underscores their intent to rebuild under Iraola, but Carragher's warning highlights the pressure to ensure this summer's spending delivers better returns than last year's outlay.
