Could Liverpool FC and Bayern Munich, both long-time admirers of Yan Diomande, be left empty-handed in their pursuit of the Ivorian forward?

According to a report from Foot Mercato, the highly rated RB Leipzig attacker is now pushing for a transfer to Paris Saint-Germain. The report claims that Diomande has given the go-ahead to PSG to complete a move this summer, following their Champions League triumph. This green light has encouraged the French giants to step up their efforts to land one of the Bundesliga’s standout performers from last season. It is understood that representatives from both clubs have already held multiple meetings to explore the possibility of a deal.

However, there is still a major obstacle — PSG are hesitant to meet Leipzig’s valuation, while the German side hold the upper hand thanks to Diomande’s contract, which runs until 2030. RB Leipzig are only prepared to consider a sale if offers reach the €100 million mark, especially since the 20-year-old has only been with them for one season.

RB Leipzig’s managing director, Oliver Mintzlaff, had earlier underlined the club’s stance during a January interview with Sky, saying, “We have to look towards the summer. Of course, you can’t let him go after just one year.” He further added, “As chairman of the supervisory board, I would say he will definitely be with us next season, even if there were bids of over 80 or 90 million euros.”

That raises the big question — will Yan Diomande stay in Leipzig, or is it time for him to take the next big step in his career?

In an interview with kicker in mid-May, Diomande was asked whether he would continue at Leipzig next season. His response was clear: “Yes.” He also stressed that he was not distracted by transfer speculation, saying, “I’m in Leipzig and I enjoy playing here.”

RB Leipzig’s third-place finish in the Bundesliga and their qualification for the Champions League could play a crucial role in retaining their star man. Missing out on Europe’s elite competition might have made a move elsewhere more attractive to Diomande, while also forcing Leipzig to consider sales to balance their finances.

PSG’s interest in Diomande could depend on the future of Bradley Barcola. The young winger’s place in the first team is uncertain given the competition within PSG’s squad, and he continues to be linked with a move away — with Bayern Munich reportedly among those interested. Should Barcola depart, Diomande would be viewed as an ideal replacement. However, the 19-year-old would likely face stiff competition from the established front-line trio of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Désiré Doué, and Ousmane Dembélé, who are currently the preferred choices for key fixtures.

Bayern Munich’s pursuit of Diomande has been ongoing for months, but sources suggest the player does not fully fit their tactical requirements. The Bavarian club are seeking a versatile forward who can play both on the wings and as a deputy for Harry Kane in the centre. Diomande, being primarily a winger, has yet to prove his credentials as a top-level No.9. By contrast, Anthony Gordon — who eventually joined FC Barcelona from Newcastle United — would have been a better fit for Bayern’s needs. Diomande, for now, remains more of a traditional wide attacker.

Liverpool, on the other hand, have maintained their interest more consistently. Speculation intensified back in January when Diomande himself stated on TikTok, “I want to play for Liverpool. I’m a big Liverpool fan. My father dreams of seeing me play at Anfield one day. That’s my dream too – and I want to make it come true.”

At Anfield, he has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to replace Mohamed Salah, who departed at the end of the season. Sky Sports reported in April that discussions between Liverpool and Diomande’s representatives had reached an advanced stage. More recently, Real Madrid have been mentioned as potential suitors, while Chelsea are also monitoring his situation closely.

Meanwhile, Diomande is preparing for the upcoming World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, where he will represent the Ivory Coast. He is seen as one of Africa’s brightest young hopes. The Elephants kick off their campaign on 14 June against Ecuador, followed by matches against Germany on 20 June and Curaçao in their final group fixture.

Diomande’s rise has been meteoric. After moving from a US-based academy to CD Leganés in early 2025, he made ten appearances for the Spanish side before joining RB Leipzig last summer for a €20 million fee. The transfer quickly proved shrewd, as Diomande cemented his place in Ole Werner’s starting XI and became a key attacking force. By the end of the Bundesliga campaign, he had recorded 12 goals and 9 assists in 33 appearances, playing a pivotal role in helping Leipzig secure a return to the Champions League.

Yan Diomande’s record for RB Leipzig:

Games: 36

Goals: 13

Assists: 10