RB Leipzig Issues Transfer Ultimatum to Yan Diomande After Liverpool's Bid Rejected
RB Leipzig has rejected Liverpool's substantial offer for winger Yan Diomande, who is currently representing Ivory Coast at the World Cup, and is poised to offer him a new contract.
Andoni Iraola's aspirations to sign Yan Diomande, the 22-year-old winger from Ivory Coast, have encountered a significant obstacle. Liverpool recently activated Diomande's release clause by paying €40 million (£34.5 million), capitalizing on his versatility to play on either wing and through the center.
However, within a day of this transaction, it became known that Liverpool had made an initial bid that could reach €100 million (£86 million) for Diomande, who is presently participating in the World Cup with the Ivory Coast. This development indicates Liverpool's strong desire to secure Diomande as a key addition to their squad.
Despite Liverpool's substantial offer, RB Leipzig swiftly turned it down, with reports indicating that the club is seeking a transfer fee closer to €130 million (£112.6 million). In light of this, RB Leipzig is prepared to present Diomande with a significantly enhanced contract, contingent upon his commitment to remain with the club until at least the summer of 2027.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed the details surrounding Leipzig's intentions, 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 also noted that Diomande is intrigued by the prospect of leaving immediately after the World Cup, leading to a current stalemate in negotiations described as a "50/50 situation." Despite the rejection of their bid, Liverpool is expected to make another attempt, as they view Diomande as a top target.
In addition to Diomande, several other prominent clubs are anticipated to show interest in the winger, especially as he continues to perform well at the World Cup. Liverpool is also exploring other options for their attacking lineup, particularly in the wake of Mohamed Salah's departure.
Among the players on Liverpool's radar is Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain, with Romano reminding fans not to overlook the French winger. Other potential targets include Said El Mala from Koln, Yankuba Minteh from Brighton, and Matias Fernandez-Pardo from Lille, should Liverpool's efforts to sign Diomande or Barcola fall through.
On the defensive front, Liverpool has been linked with a move for Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund as they seek to fill the void left by Ibrahima Konate's transfer to Real Madrid. However, Liverpool may face challenges in acquiring the German international, as he reportedly has a preference for joining Real Madrid.
