Ivory Coast and RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has been urged not to join Liverpool this summer, with former Germany international Steffen Freund pointing to Florian Wirtz's difficulties at the club as a warning. Diomande, 19, has emerged as Liverpool's top transfer target as new head coach Andoni Iraola looks to reshape the attack.
Liverpool's Pursuit and Leipzig's Stance
Liverpool are prepared to bid up to £86 million for Diomande, who is currently starring for Ivory Coast in the World Cup. However, RB Leipzig are determined to keep the winger and will only consider a sale for around £112 million (€130 million). Diomande, also a target for Paris Saint-Germain, joined Leipzig from Spanish side Leganes for £17 million last year and has had just one season in the Bundesliga.
Freund's Advice: Stay in Germany
Freund, a former Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City defender, believes Diomande would benefit from remaining in Germany for at least another season to avoid the pressure that Wirtz has faced since his £116 million move from Bayer Leverkusen to Liverpool 12 months ago. “Physically, he should be able to manage it,” Freund told SportBILD via Sport Witness. “But take Florian Wirtz as an example: he’s joined the reigning champion and was expected to win the title straight away. The pressure on him is immense.”
Freund added: “In the Premier League, he’s up against better full backs than in the Bundesliga. It’s a different kettle of fish – it’s a real battle there.”
Risk of a Step Back
The ex-Germany international emphasized the importance of careful career progression: “He (Diomande) should stay in Leipzig for another year. If he maintains his excellent form next season, he can still move to a big club. Because the next move will bring pressure – much more pressure than he’s faced so far.”
Freund concluded: “He can afford to have the odd bad game in Leipzig. If he leaves now, and if it’s not the right club, he’ll take a step back.”
