Liverpool's pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has intensified as his agency, Roc Nation, pressures the Bundesliga club to accept a €100 million (£86.7m) offer from the Reds, according to German outlet Bild. The bid was rejected by Leipzig, who are holding out for a package closer to €120 million (£104.1m) to sanction the sale of the 19-year-old.
Diomande's Preference and World Cup Impact
Diomande, currently representing Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup, has previously expressed admiration for Paris Saint-Germain, saying: "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 added that adapting to PSG would be easy due to the French language. Despite this, Liverpool remain in the race, with new manager Andoni Iraola keen to secure the winger's signature.
Gakpo's Message to Iraola
Meanwhile, Cody Gakpo has sent a subtle message to Iraola after a standout World Cup performance for the Netherlands. The Dutchman scored twice and provided an assist in a 5-1 win over Sweden, taking his tally to five goals in his last two World Cup tournaments. When asked about his role difference between club and country, Gakpo said: "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." This hints at discontent with his left-wing role at Liverpool, where he was often stuck on the touchline while Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz occupied the inside channel.
Iraola's Squad Moulding
Iraola has made a swift start in the transfer market, signing Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet for £55 million in a deal agreed under former manager Arne Slot. The Reds boss is preparing for his first pre-season at Anfield in July and is expected to further reshape the squad, with Gakpo's comments potentially influencing his tactical plans.
