Sources: Arsenal have advantage over Liverpool in €100m-plus transfer battle | OneFootball

Arsenal have been linked with Yan Diomande and my understanding is that they’d have the edge over Liverpool in the race for his signature.

Having reached out to a number of sources close to the situation, I can reveal that Champions League football is considered a must for Diomande when it comes to deciding his future.

The Ivory Coast international is yet to decide on his future, and he could even sign a new deal with Leipzig, as they remain in contention for Champions League qualification.

Liverpool, by contrast, currently face an uphill battle to get into Europe’s top club competition next season, so could fall behind in the race for Diomande.

Arsenal register interest in Yan Diomande

Liverpool have been strongly linked with Diomande for some time now, but I’m now also aware that the Gunners have registered an interest.

“Arsenal have reached out to those around Diomande to be kept informed over his future,” one source said. “That doesn’t mean a bid or an offer is imminent or definitely going to happen, but it’s a position they’re looking to strengthen and he’s appreciated by their recruitment team.”

“Diomande is Liverpool’s preferred Salah replacement, but the reality is that they’ll struggle to get him without Champions League football, and there is a huge amount of interest from all over Europe, with Arsenal very much in the race,” another source added.

Yan Diomande transfer looks ideal to add spark to stale Arsenal attack

Arsenal have had a strange season as they sit top of the Premier League table without really looking that convincing with their performances, particularly in attack.

Mikel Arteta’s side often get results through a strong defensive set-up and a threat from set-pieces, but someone like Diomande could help turn them into much more of a threat in attack.

The talented 19-year-old has an impressive return of 11 goals and six assists this season, and that could make him an upgrade on the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal fans will hope there will be more emphasis on creativity and flair next season, with Arteta’s tactics this season not really in keeping with the club’s traditions.

AFC were always great entertainers under Arsene Wenger and even if some tactical tweaking has been useful to improve results, there have also been times this season when it looks like it’s cost the team.