Liverpool's Salah replacement hunt shifts as Diomande chooses PSG over Anfield

Liverpool’s search for a long-term successor to Mohamed Salah has suffered a significant setback after Yan Diomande indicated his preference to join Paris Saint-Germain rather than move to Anfield. The 19-year-old RB Leipzig winger has reached a verbal agreement with PSG, according to The Athletic, with Leipzig demanding £112.1 million (€130m) for his services.

Diomande, who represents Ivory Coast internationally, is said to believe the Paris project offers him the best platform for silverware and personal ambitions, including future Ballon d’Or consideration. Liverpool had identified him as their primary target to fill the void left by Salah, but must now look elsewhere.

Said El Mala — Cologne

One name emerging as an alternative is Cologne’s Said El Mala, who is reportedly available for around £43.1 million (€50m) — nearly £70 million less than Diomande’s asking price. The 19-year-old has registered 13 goals and five assists in 36 appearances this season, and German outlet FussballDaten reports Liverpool are showing genuine interest. El Mala is also attracting attention from Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle.

Yankuba Minteh — Brighton

Brighton’s Yankuba Minteh is another name on Liverpool’s radar, with The Athletic reporting the club have earmarked a £40 million budget for his signing. The 21-year-old has contributed 10 goals and nine assists for Brighton since joining from Newcastle in 2024, and previously worked under Arne Slot at Feyenoord, where he made 16 goal contributions in 37 appearances. Minteh also impressed directly against Liverpool, playing a key role in Brighton’s 2-1 win over the Reds in March.

Rayan — Bournemouth

Bournemouth’s Rayan is also under consideration, with new Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola’s prior relationship with the 19-year-old from their time together at the Cherries potentially easing any potential move. Rayan has been in strong form for Bournemouth and represents a familiar option for Iraola as he reshapes the squad.

With Salah’s departure looming and their top target now seemingly headed to France, Liverpool face a busy summer as they attempt to address one of the most high-profile vacancies in European football.