Ivory Coast manager Emerse Fae could barely contain his amusement. Surrounded by reporters after his side’s 1-0 World Cup victory over Ecuador in Philadelphia, he was asked about the future of his teenage winger Yan Diomande — and the rumours linking him to Liverpool. “Here, they tell me he’s about to sign with Liverpool!” Fae laughed, recalling how, during World Cup preparations in France, journalists had told him Diomande was close to joining Paris Saint-Germain. “I don’t know,” he shrugged. “For now, he will focus on the World Cup, and then afterwards, he can think about the rest of his career.”
Diomande, 19, had just been named man of the match, his relentless running and four completed dribbles a constant threat to Ecuador. The RB Leipzig winger registered more touches than any of his Ivory Coast teammates before Manchester United’s Amad Diallo scored a late winner. The display came amid mounting speculation that Liverpool, seeking additional pace after Mohamed Salah’s departure at the end of the season, have made Diomande a prime target. Champions League holders PSG are also interested. Leipzig, however, are unwilling to part with the teenager, though negotiations are continuing.
“Ivory Coast boss Emerse Fae laughs off Liverpool transfer talk as Yan Diomande stars in World Cup win.”
Fae was full of praise for his young star. “Yan — what can I say? I can’t put it into words. He’s very talented, but beyond the talent, he’s very young and he’ll improve. He’s a kid who works hard, has a real team spirit, laughs with everyone, and listens to the technical staff whenever he’s given advice. It’s easy to work with someone like Yan.” The 19-year-old even had a pre-match meeting with rap icon Jay Z, whose agency Roc Nation Sports signed Diomande earlier this year. But that deal has sparked a legal battle: Diomande’s previous representatives, Maxidel Management, have launched legal action claiming he is still contracted to them.
For now, Diomande’s focus remains on the World Cup. But with Liverpool circling, and Leipzig holding firm, his next move is anything but certain.