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Diomande Favors PSG Over Liverpool as Transfer Battle Intensifies

BBC Sport Football •
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Liverpool's pursuit of 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande has hit a significant obstacle, with the Ivorian preferring a move to Paris St-Germain instead. The Reds saw their opening offer of £69m plus £17m in add-ons rebuffed by RB Leipzig earlier this month, who now seek around £129m for the former Leganes prospect. Leipzig remain steadfast, insisting no financial pressure exists to sell and willing to improve his contract to retain him.

PSG's recruitment drive continues under chairman Nasser Al-Khelaifi and manager Luis Enrique, targeting one or two marquee additions after securing back-to-back Champions League titles and Ligue 1 crowns. The French side could fund moves through expected departures, including Goncalo Ramos to AC Milan for approximately £63m, while Lee Kang-in and Randal Kolo Muani also face uncertain futures.

Liverpool's alternative target, Bradley Barcola, appears unlikely to leave Paris as PSG push to extend his deal. Meanwhile, new head coach Andoni Iraola has already secured his first signing in Victor Munoz from Osasuna for £34.5m. Diomande's preference for PSG complicates Liverpool's attacking rebuild and strengthens the French champions' position in negotiations.

The teenager's decision reflects PSG's European pedigree and project appeal, leaving Liverpool to pursue other options or match Leipzig's valuation. This transfer saga highlights the growing competition for elite young talent between Premier League and European powerhouses.