Liverpool's decision not to match RB Leipzig's asking price for Yan Diomande in the summer has been highlighted by the winger's impressive start at Real Madrid, with Jude Bellingham among those taking note. The Reds' 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday compounded frustrations as their own attacking signings continue to struggle.
Missed Transfer Target
Liverpool were among the leading contenders to sign Diomande during the summer transfer window but were unwilling to meet RB Leipzig's €130million (£111m) asking price. The Reds submitted an £85m offer for the winger, which was rejected by the German club, and they decided against pursuing a deal further.
Diomande, who is believed to have held talks with Andoni Iraola before making his decision, ultimately opted to join Madrid instead. The Spanish giants saw an initial £85.4m bid turned down before reaching an agreement worth up to €140m (£120m), with €125m (£107m) paid upfront and a further €15m (£12.8m) in performance-related add-ons. Diomande signed a seven-year contract.
Bellingham's Verdict
Signing a winger had not initially been among Madrid's priorities, with the club expected to bring Nico Paz back to the Santiago Bernabeu by activating their buy-back option following his spell at Como. However, Paz remained in Italy, and Madrid instead strengthened with Diomande's arrival.
The decision has already paid dividends. Bellingham was particularly impressed by Diomande's shooting ability and admitted he had been taken aback by the quality of the 19-year-old. "Incredible," the England international stated on the club's official website. "I didn’t know he could shoot like that, but he’s very good. He’s a special player, and we are very happy to have him in our squad."
Contrasting Fortunes
Diomande was on the scoresheet again during Madrid's 3-0 victory over Racing Santander on Sunday, taking his tally to four goals and four assists in 14 appearances across all competitions. His form adds to Liverpool's frustration, given the difficulties their own summer signings have experienced.
Bradley Barcola, who arrived at Anfield after the Reds missed out on Diomande, has struggled to consistently produce the attacking contributions expected of him. Florian Wirtz has also found it difficult to hit his stride, with the German midfielder yet to establish himself as the creative force Liverpool had hoped for.
The pair have managed just four goals between them so far this season. Their struggles were evident during Sunday's 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, with the pair failing to register a single shot on target between them. Wirtz managed three attempts without testing David Raya and failed to create a chance before being substituted, while Barcola recorded just one shot and created one opportunity despite playing the full 90 minutes.
With Diomande already flourishing in Spain, Liverpool may be wondering how differently things could have turned out had they pushed harder to secure his signature during the summer.
