Diomande favours the Parc des Princes
Liverpool have abandoned their pursuit of Yan Diomande, the RB Leipzig wonderkid. The 19-year-old winger, fresh from an impressive World Cup campaign, is expected to commit to the Ligue 1 champions.
PSG are highly confident of sealing a swift agreement with Leipzig. The Bundesliga club initially demanded a massive fee, which cooled Liverpool’s interest as they refused to exceed their internal valuation for the young talent.
Liverpool now see Barcola as the prime target
With Diomande seemingly heading to France, Liverpool have pivoted to Bradley Barcola. The 23-year-old winger sits high on Anfield’s recruitment shortlist. His profile matches the criteria to eventually succeed Mohamed Salah, especially after the successful signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna.
The France international’s situation at PSG is complicated. Though still highly rated, his future is uncertain due to frustration over not being fielded in the biggest matches. Specifically, Barcola was disappointed not to start in PSG’s recent Champions League final victory over Arsenal, raising questions about his long-term prospects under Luis Enrique.
A departure could be on the cards for Barcola
PSG are not actively looking to offload Barcola, but they may be forced to sell this summer. With only two years left on his contract, this is the Parisian club’s last chance to secure a significant fee if the winger refuses to extend. They will not let him go cheaply but are unlikely to block a move if a satisfactory offer arrives.
Arsenal have been mentioned as a possible destination, but the Gunners seem focused on other targets for now. As the transfer window heats up, Liverpool appear the most determined to test PSG’s resolve, especially if Barcola returns from international duty still uncertain about his role in the team.
Barcola’s trophy-laden PSG career
Signed by Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 for €45 million, Barcola has since made 152 appearances across all competitions for the Parisian side. He has scored 39 goals and provided 37 assists. His trophy haul at PSG includes twelve honours, among them two Champions League titles and three Ligue 1 championships.
During the World Cup group stage, he scored against Senegal and provided an assist against Norway while playing for Les Bleus.
