Liverpool's search for Mohamed Salah's successor has suffered a major setback after Yan Diomande informed Andoni Iraola of his decision to favour a move to Real Madrid. The 19-year-old RB Leipzig winger, long linked with a switch to Anfield, is now leaning towards the Spanish giants after positive talks with José Mourinho's camp, according to reports. Real Madrid had an £85m bid rejected but remain confident of agreeing a deal, leaving Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain trailing in the race. The Reds had tabled an identical bid for the Ivorian, which was also turned down, while PSG had been considered Diomande's preference earlier in the summer.
The development piles pressure on Iraola, whose only attacking addition so far has been the £34m signing of Spain forward Victor Munoz last month. Mohamed Salah departed at the end of the 2025/26 season, and the right-wing spot remains unfilled with just over a month until the transfer window shuts. With Diomande seemingly out of reach, Liverpool are exploring alternatives and have turned their attention to the Portuguese league. According to fussballdaten, the Reds are monitoring Porto wonderkid Oskar Pietuszewski. The 18-year-old Polish winger joined Porto in January and has quickly impressed, attracting interest from Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea. Porto have inserted a £51.2m release clause in his contract, though Borussia Dortmund are reportedly leading the race for his signature. Iraola may have to move quickly if he is to secure a forward reinforcement before the 2026/27 season kicks off.
“Liverpool's pursuit of Yan Diomande falters as Real Madrid emerge as favourites, with Porto's £51m winger now in their sights.”