PSG in talks to sign Liverpool target Diomande

Paris Saint-Germain are closing in on Yan Diomande, the 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger who has publicly sided with the French champions over Liverpool in a high-stakes transfer saga. Sky Sports News understands Diomande has made clear his preference to join PSG, a move that could force Liverpool to pivot in a new direction after their £86m valuation failed to move RB Leipzig.

Liverpool’s pursuit stalls as Leipzig dig in

Liverpool had identified Diomande as a priority target under new manager Andoni Iraola, arriving in the market after securing Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m. The Reds’ initial offer of £86m was rebuffed by Leipzig, who are demanding a higher fee. With negotiations at an impasse, PSG’s involvement now risks leaving Liverpool empty-handed in their attempt to replace Mohamed Salah. Iraola’s side have already moved on, signing Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for £60m, but Diomande’s departure would leave a significant void in their attacking plans.

Diomande’s preference for PSG over Liverpool adds another layer of complexity. The French club have a pre-agreed contract with the winger until 2031, though club-to-club talks with Leipzig remain ongoing. Manchester City have also been monitoring the situation, but Leipzig’s stance suggests PSG may have the clearest path to a deal.

PSG’s strategic shift under new leadership

PSG’s interest in Diomande reflects their broader ambition to rebuild under new football leadership, following a transitional period that has seen the club recalibrate its long-term strategy. The club’s willingness to meet Leipzig’s valuation underscores their urgency to secure young talent who can develop alongside established stars like Kylian Mbappé. Diomande’s direct style and versatility—capable of playing across the front line—make him an ideal fit for a side transitioning to a more fluid system.

This pursuit also underscores PSG’s determination to avoid a repeat of last summer’s missed opportunities. The club’s failure to land key targets left them exposed in European competition, and Diomande represents a chance to reinforce their squad with a player who could grow into a long-term solution.

What comes next for Liverpool?

Liverpool’s transfer strategy has already shifted once this summer, with Iraola prioritising multiple attacking signings to offset Salah’s departure. The Reds’ focus now turns to alternative targets, though their options are narrowing. Iraola’s early transfer activity has followed a pattern of calculated gambles, blending high-profile signings with developmental projects. Yet the Diomande deal’s collapse leaves a gap that may prove difficult to fill before the window slams shut.

For Leipzig, the deal represents a chance to cash in on a rising asset. Diomande’s stock has risen sharply after standout performances in the Bundesliga, where he has become a regular in Ralf Rangnick’s plans. His potential sale could fund further recruitment, though the club will demand a premium to reflect his development trajectory.

As the window tightens, the next 48 hours could decide Diomande’s future. PSG’s willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Leipzig suggests they are prepared to meet the asking price, while Liverpool’s hesitation may force them to look elsewhere. The winger’s decision to favour Paris over Liverpool adds a personal dimension to a transfer that has already taken unexpected turns.

For now, the focus shifts to Leipzig’s final valuation and whether Liverpool can regroup quickly enough to land an alternative. One thing is certain: Diomande’s move, if completed, will reshape the balance of power in European football’s transfer market this summer.

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