Report: Liverpool have now opened talks to sign one of the world’s most expensive U23 players
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Liverpool are stepping up their pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as the summer transfer window nears.Diomande has been linked for a while and is among those mooted to replace Mohamed Salah once the Egyptian leaves for free at the end of 2025/26.A recent update from Germany said the Liverpool target’s price tag is now going up thanks to Leipzig likely securing Champions League football, but that does not appear to have dissuaded the Reds, who have opened talks and hope to have a preliminary agreement done before the 2026 World Cup. Who should Richard Hughes be targeting above all… Photo Credit: Getty Images/Robin Jones Liverpool open talks for Yan DiomandeAccording to Graeme Bailey of TeamTalk, talks between the current Premier League champions and the winger’s representatives have begun, with plans to get some sort of agreement in place before the World Cup kicks off in North America.After such a deal is struck, Liverpool would then enter negotiations with Leipzig, but could face competition for his signature.As well as a few Premier League sides, both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona are mentioned as having an interest in Diomande.However, Liverpool are said to be confident they can get a deal for the 13-goal star over the line.It is expected to cost somewhere around £87m to sign the player, which is not too surprising given Diomande was named one of the world’s most expensive U23 players last month.Everything Yan Diomande has said about LiverpoolWhile competition for the attacker may be fierce, Liverpool might have one advantage in the race as the player’s father wants to see him play at Anfield.Speaking back in January 2026, he stated: “I want to play at Anfield, I want to play for Liverpool.
“I’m a big Liverpool fan. My father’s dream is to see me play for Liverpool.”Meanwhile, in an interview earlier this month, Diomande commented on Liverpool interest.He said: “Hearing these rumours about big clubs like PSG, Chelsea, Liverpool and others interested in me only motivates me even more.
As for the rest, I have a team that takes care of everything; I don’t stress about it. I play in Leipzig, and I’m enjoying myself.”Join Our NewsletterReceive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox