RB Leipzig Issues Transfer Ultimatum to Yan Diomande After Liverpool Bid Rejected
RB Leipzig has rejected a substantial bid from Liverpool for winger Yan Diomande, while the club offers him a lucrative new contract contingent on his stay until 2027.
Andoni Iraola's aspirations of securing the services of Ivory Coast star Yan Diomande have encountered a significant setback following a rejected bid from Liverpool.
Liverpool activated Diomande's release clause by paying €40 million (£34.5 million), as the 22-year-old has demonstrated versatility by excelling on both wings and in a central role when necessary.
Shortly after triggering the release clause, Liverpool submitted an initial offer that could reach up to €100 million (£86 million) for the RB Leipzig winger. Diomande, currently participating in the World Cup with the Ivory Coast, has been identified as a key transfer target for the Merseyside club.
Despite Liverpool's aggressive pursuit, their bid was promptly turned down by RB Leipzig, who are reportedly looking for a fee in the vicinity of €130 million (£112.6 million).
In response to the situation, RB Leipzig is prepared to offer Diomande a significantly enhanced contract, provided he consents to remain with the club until at least the summer of 2027.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared insights on the developments, stating, "The intention of Leipzig remains to try and keep the player. Leipzig really want to keep the player, offering a new contract, give a better salary, put a release clause, go wherever you want in summer 2027. This is what RB Leipzig are offering Diomande."
Romano further noted that Diomande is intrigued by the possibility of leaving immediately after the World Cup, creating a 50/50 scenario regarding his future.
Despite the rejection, Liverpool is expected to make another attempt, as they are determined to acquire Diomande, whom they regard as a top target.
In addition to Diomande, several other prominent clubs are anticipated to show interest in the winger, especially given his impressive performances at the World Cup.
Diomande is not the only potential target for Liverpool as Iraola aims to revamp the team's attacking options following Mohamed Salah's departure. Among those on Liverpool's radar is Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola, with Romano reminding fans not to overlook the French player.
Other names being considered include Koln's Said El Mala, Brighton's Yankuba Minteh, and Lille's Matias Fernandez-Pardo, all of whom could be viable options if Liverpool fails to secure either Diomande or Barcola.
Additionally, Liverpool is rumored to be pursuing Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck to fill the void left by Ibrahima Konate's transfer to Real Madrid. However, Liverpool may face challenges in this pursuit, as reports indicate that Schlotterbeck is also interested in joining Real Madrid.
