RB Leipzig's rising star Yan Diomande has addressed swirling transfer rumours connecting him with Liverpool, revealing that the Premier League club holds a special place in his father's heart rather than being his personal dream destination. The 19-year-old midfielder, who has emerged as one of Europe's most sought-after young talents in the Bundesliga, found himself at the centre of speculation after a social media clip suggested he expressed a desire to play for Liverpool.
Clarifying the Comments
In an interview with German publication BILD, Diomande moved to set the record straight regarding his alleged remarks about Liverpool. He explained that while his father is a devoted fan of the Anfield outfit, his own ambitions currently lie with RB Leipzig. "People made it out to be my dream club," Diomande stated. "But first and foremost, it's my dad's favourite club. It was always his great wish to see me play there someday because he loves the atmosphere at Anfield. He always raved about Steven Gerrard."
The Ivory Coast international added that he was too young to witness Gerrard's legendary career firsthand, noting that his family did not even own a television for an extended period. Despite this, Diomande expressed considerable respect for Liverpool, but emphasised his commitment to Leipzig. "I have a lot of respect for Liverpool, but my dream club right now is Leipzig," he affirmed.
Jurgen Klopp's Influence
Diomande also touched upon his relationship with former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who now serves as Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull organisation, which includes RB Leipzig in its portfolio. While dismissing any discussions with Klopp specifically about Liverpool, Diomande revealed his admiration for the Champions League and Premier League-winning coach.
"No, not that," Diomande said regarding talks about Liverpool. "But we talk every now and then. He tells me to stay humble and keep working hard. It was always my dream to play on one of his teams. That's not quite possible now. But being so close to him now, talking to him, shaking his hand, it's incredible. He's a legend. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a movie."
Liverpool's Leipzig Connections
Liverpool have maintained a positive and productive relationship with RB Leipzig over the past decade, facilitating several player exchanges between the two clubs. Notable arrivals from Leipzig to Anfield include Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai, both of whom have become integral members of manager Arne Slot's squad.
Konate, whose contract is set to expire this summer, has developed into a reliable understudy to captain Virgil van Dijk, though Liverpool face a challenge to retain his services. Meanwhile, Szoboszlai has elevated his performance since moving to Merseyside, emerging as a standout player in what has otherwise been a disappointing season for the Reds.
Former Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita also enjoyed a stint at Liverpool, where he became a fan favourite and departed with a Premier League winner's medal, despite his time being hampered by injuries. The successful integration of these players underscores the strong rapport between the two clubs, which continues to fuel transfer speculation around talents like Diomande.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Diomande's clarification may temper immediate links to Liverpool, but his burgeoning talent ensures he remains a player to watch across Europe's top leagues.
