100 million is still not enough for Diomande

It's remarkable how much can change in just a year, especially for young footballers who are only beginning to make their way in senior football. Less than a year ago, RB Leipzig paid 20 euros million for the then relatively unknown Yan Diomande from CD Leganes. At the time, the Ivorian winger's market value was estimated at just 1.5 million, but Leipzig — as they so often do — spotted the potential before everyone else. How right the Bundesliga side was became clear over the course of the season, as Diomande developed into a truly elite prospect. According to Sky Sport Germany, Liverpool FC submitted an offer worth 100 million euros (90 million fixed plus 10 million in bonuses), only for it to be rejected outright by Leipzig.

Diomande's letter to his late sister: "Since you died, I’m just blank. It’s like I’m not even human"

However, that was merely the opening bid. The same source, along with several other respected outlets including The Athletic, reports that Liverpool are preparing an improved offer and that a package worth 120 million to 130 million could potentially get the deal done. Even so, timing remains a key issue. Leipzig would prefer not to sell the 19-year-old this June. Instead, the club hopes to reward him with a new contract and a substantial pay rise before considering a move to one of Europe's giants in 2027.

Much will depend on Diomande himself, as well as his performances at the current World Cup, where he has the potential to become one of the tournament's breakout stars. He already hinted at that in Ivory Coast's opening match against Ecuador. Although he neither scored nor provided an assist, he was named Man of the Match in the 1-0 victory. His dazzling dribbling tormented Piero Hincapié and the Ecuadorian defense throughout the game.

"His dribbling is extraordinary. The way he starts and stops, accelerates and then slows defenders down is incredible. That speed is unbelievable," said Germany captain and Bayern Munich legend Joshua Kimmich.

African replacement — Salah’s alternatives come from Ivory Coast and the Bundesliga

Last season, Diomande produced 13 goals and 10 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions for Leipzig. Those performances earned him the Bundesliga's Rookie of the Season award, following in the footsteps of Michael Olise. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain, who are also interested in Diomande, have yet to make a move. Liverpool, on the other hand, are already preparing their next step — and a significantly improved offer.

WORLD CUP - GROUP STAGE (ROUND 2)

Saturday 20.06.

06.00: (2.10) Turkey (3.35) Paraguay (3.60)

Group E

Saturday 20.06.

23.00: (1.58) Germany (4.00) Ivory Coast (5.90)

Sunday 21.06.

03.00: (1.12) Ecuador (9.50) Curacao (19.0)