Liverpool are preparing a bold and creative summer transfer move that could reshape their squad without a major cash outlay. According to reports, the Reds have identified RB Leipzig’s 19-year-old Ivorian star Yan Diomande as their top target to replace Mohamed Salah, who is set to depart Anfield this summer.
Diomande has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season at Leipzig, registering 13 goals and 10 assists across all competitions. His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Liverpool maintaining close scouting interest in the highly-rated right winger. With a reported £86 million release clause in his contract, a straight cash deal would be extremely expensive. However, the Reds are exploring an innovative package involving players to significantly reduce or even eliminate the upfront fee.
Four Players on the Table
Liverpool’s strong historical relationship with RB Leipzig — having successfully signed Dominik Szoboszlai, Ibrahima Konaté, and Naby Keïta in recent years — could prove crucial in facilitating a complex deal. Sources suggest the club is willing to offer up to four players as part of negotiations.
Federico Chiesa is one name expected to feature prominently. The Italian international has struggled to make a consistent impact since arriving at Anfield, contributing just three goals and three assists in 36 appearances last season. With his future uncertain, Liverpool would likely be open to including him in a deal.
Curtis Jones, a Liverpool academy graduate, represents one of the club’s most valuable assets in any negotiation. Valued at around £35 million, the midfielder has attracted interest from Serie A clubs. A move to Leipzig could form the cornerstone of Liverpool’s offer.
Wataru Endo is another potential outgoing. The experienced Japanese midfielder, who remains under contract until 2027, could be cashed in during what might be one of the final windows to maximise his value. His leadership — recently named captain for Japan’s upcoming World Cup campaign — could make him an attractive proposition for Leipzig.
Finally, Joe Gomez could complete the quartet. The 29-year-old defender has been linked with a departure on multiple occasions, and with his contract expiring next summer, Liverpool may use him as leverage to sweeten the package for Diomande.
Strategic Context
This potential multi-player exchange reflects the pragmatic approach Liverpool must take this summer. Having failed to retain the Premier League title but still securing Champions League football, Arne Slot’s side face the challenge of rebuilding key areas of the squad, particularly on the right wing.
While names like Anthony Gordon and Bradley Barcola have also been linked, Diomande sits at the very top of Liverpool’s wishlist, according to The Telegraph. His youth, technical quality, and impressive goal contributions make him an exciting long-term replacement for Salah.
The proposed structure of the deal — prioritising player exchanges over a huge cash payment — could allow Liverpool to strengthen their squad efficiently while balancing the books. Success in bringing Diomande to Anfield would represent a significant coup, especially given his age and potential.
As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Anfield to see whether this ambitious plan materialises. For Liverpool fans, the prospect of landing one of Europe’s brightest young talents while clearing out fringe players could mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter.