Big boost for Liverpool and Chelsea in pursuit of African starlet

Liverpool and Chelsea are both tracking RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande amid growing interest in the highly rated teenager.

The 19-year-old has caught the eye with a string of impressive performances in the Bundesliga and has also shone on the international stage. Seen as a potential long-term investment, Diomande could become a smart addition for either Premier League giant, with a summer move now a real possibility.

Primarily a left-sided attacker, Diomande is comfortable on both wings and offers pace, creativity and unpredictability in the final third. Those qualities explain the interest from Liverpool and Chelsea, who have at times struggled to produce consistent threat from wide areas and are keen to add a dynamic winger to their squads.

Both clubs have received a boost in their pursuit, with Tottenham also attempting to sign the African youngster during the January window. Speaking to Sky, Red Bull director Oliver Mintzlaff admitted Leipzig may eventually need to cash in, saying: “You can’t let him go after just one year, but the reality is there are other top clubs out there and we also have to generate revenue.”

That admission will encourage Liverpool and Chelsea, who have the financial power to meet Leipzig’s demands and could find it relatively straightforward to persuade the player. A move to the Premier League, where he would compete at the highest level, is likely to appeal strongly to Diomande.

Interest in the Ivorian extends across Europe, and his future remains wide open. Adding further intrigue, Diomande has previously revealed he is a lifelong Liverpool supporter, a factor that could yet play a role in any eventual decision.