Yan Diomande hands Liverpool a transfer blow after revealing PSG admiration

Liverpool may have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Yan Diomande after the RB Leipzig forward admitted he has admired Paris Saint-Germain since childhood.

The 19-year-old is attracting interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs after an outstanding breakthrough season.

Diomande joined Leipzig from Leganes last summer and quickly established himself as one of the most exciting young attackers in Germany.

The Ivory Coast international registered 13 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, form which placed him firmly on the radar of Liverpool and PSG.

Liverpool are expected to strengthen on the right side of their attack this summer following Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of the season.

Diomande has been identified as one of the players capable of helping fill that void, but his latest comments suggest PSG could have a significant emotional advantage in the race.

Speaking before Ivory Coast’s friendly against France, the teenager was asked about reported interest from the European champions.

“Paris Saint-Germain is a team I’ve loved since I was a child,” he said. “My father supports Paris Saint-Germain, and it’s a team I admire as a football fan.”

“It would be a pleasure for me to come and play in Paris with one of the biggest clubs.

“I remain focused on the World Cup. After that, the clubs will sort things out between themselves, and then we’ll see what happens next.”

The comments will be of interest to Liverpool, particularly as Diomande had previously spoken warmly about the idea of playing at Anfield.

Earlier this year, he said it was his father’s dream to see him represent Liverpool and described sharing that ambition.

However, his latest remarks indicate that PSG may now be in a strong position if they decide to pursue a deal seriously.

The French champions are also expected to reshape their attack this summer. Bradley Barcola’s future is uncertain, and competition for places has increased under Luis Enrique.

Diomande’s ability to play across the front line makes him an attractive option for both clubs.