Report: Liverpool still moving on top target | OneFootball

Liverpool stepping up pursuit of Yan Diomande

Liverpool’s summer rebuild is still in its infancy, yet one name continues to dominate discussions around Anfield: Yan Diomande.

Speaking on his YouTube channel after returning from holiday, journalist Lewis Steele offered an extensive update on Liverpool’s transfer plans and made it clear that Diomande remains one of the club’s most intriguing targets.

According to Steele, Liverpool have been tracking the Ivory Coast international for a significant period and have already completed extensive groundwork behind the scenes.

“There’s not many huge updates,” Steele explained, “but we can say this. Liverpool have done a lot of work in the background on Yan Diomande. And I mean a lot of work.”

That statement will encourage supporters who have watched Diomande’s reputation soar over the last year. The winger’s latest performances at the World Cup have only increased the excitement surrounding a potential move.

Steele revealed that Liverpool’s interest stretches back months, adding: “The name has been floating around. We’re in mid-June now. I think reports and murmurs in the background. I think I’ve been talking about him for about six months now.”

With Liverpool expected to strengthen their forward line this summer, Diomande appears firmly established on the club’s shortlist.

World Cup performances strengthen Liverpool interest

While Liverpool players have generally enjoyed encouraging starts to the World Cup, Diomande’s displays for Ivory Coast have generated particular attention.

Steele was especially impressed by the winger’s performance against Ecuador.

“He was brilliant on the right wing,” he said. “We knew he was brilliant. It was just the way he took that game by the scruff of its neck.”

The journalist highlighted Diomande’s versatility and ability to trouble defenders on either flank.

“He had Piero Hincapié on toast and then he switched over to the other wing and had the other full-back on toast as well.”

Beyond the entertainment factor, Steele believes Diomande showcased qualities Liverpool have been searching for in attacking areas. Direct running, pace, confidence and the ability to create chances all stood out.

“If it was for better finishing from his team-mates, he could have had at least two, maybe even three assists.”

That creativity is particularly appealing given Liverpool’s desire to refresh their attack with younger players capable of growing into elite performers.

Liverpool may hold advantage over rivals

Competition for Diomande is expected to be fierce.

Steele acknowledged that Paris Saint-Germain remain a significant threat and are likely to challenge Liverpool throughout negotiations.

“We know PSG are key,” he said. “We know that they’re going to push Liverpool close.”

However, Steele also outlined several reasons why Liverpool could currently be ahead in the race.

“We know that they’re not the only two clubs involved. However, I just think all the work that Liverpool have done on this on the player side and the fact they have a really good working relationship with RB Leipzig.”

Liverpool’s previous dealings with RB Leipzig, including moves for Ibrahima Konaté and Dominik Szoboszlai, may prove beneficial.

Steele stopped short of declaring Liverpool favourites but hinted strongly at their position.

“I struggle to reach any conclusion other than that Liverpool must be the front-runners at this stage.”

€100m valuation may not deter Liverpool

One major obstacle remains the asking price.

Reports have suggested Diomande could command a fee of around €100 million, a figure that has only become more realistic following his World Cup performances.

Steele believes Liverpool were already aware of the valuation long before the tournament began.

“I think they’ve long communicated that €100 million price tag on him.”

Rather than attempting lengthy negotiations, Liverpool may eventually decide that the player is worth the investment.

“It might just be that Liverpool don’t have any haggling room anymore. Or maybe they just have to say, ‘There you go. There’s your cash.'”

Perhaps most importantly, Steele believes Diomande fits exactly what Liverpool require.

“He looks the part. He looks the real deal. He can play on either side. I think he’s exactly what Liverpool need.”

Despite modest statistical output compared with some elite forwards, Steele pointed towards age, development potential and visual impact.

“Look at the age profile. Look at the eye test. In fact, he’s brilliant.”

For a Liverpool side entering a crucial summer of change, Diomande increasingly looks like the top target capable of shaping the next era at Anfield.