Diomande prefers PSG over Liverpool in £112m RB Leipzig transfer race

Yan Diomande wants to join Paris Saint-Germain rather than Liverpool if he departs RB Leipzig this summer, according to The Athletic, dealing a significant blow to the Reds’ pursuit of a successor to Mohamed Salah.

The 19-year-old Ivory Coast forward has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted attackers after a standout Bundesliga season in which he registered 12 goals and nine assists across 33 appearances. Leipzig signed Diomande from Leganés last summer and have made clear they will not entertain offers below €130 million (£112.1m).

Diomande’s preference for PSG is understood to stem from his belief that the project in Paris offers the best platform to compete for major trophies and, ultimately, to contend for a future Ballon d’Or. The French club claimed the Champions League title this season, adding further weight to their appeal.

Liverpool had been among the frontrunners for Diomande’s signature and earlier this month communicated a willingness to propose a package worth €100 million (£86.8m), only to be told that figure fell well short of Leipzig’s valuation. The gap between the clubs’ positions, combined with Diomande’s personal preference, leaves Liverpool facing a difficult path to completing the deal.

The Merseyside club are entering a new era under head coach Andoni Iraola, who was appointed after Arne Slot was sacked last month. Replacing Salah — who left Anfield this summer after a trophy-laden spell — remains the most pressing item on Liverpool’s summer agenda, and Diomande’s stance will force the club to reassess their options in the transfer market.