Liverpool Transfer News: Salah & Gakpo Futures in Doubt, £87m Diomande Targeted
Liverpool are bracing for a significant overhaul of their attacking options this summer, with both Mohamed Salah and Cody Gakpo facing uncertain futures at Anfield. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that the club is actively planning for reinforcements, while TEAMtalk sources reveal a primary target in RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.
Currently sixth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Arsenal by 19 points , Liverpool’s title defense has faltered. While still competing in the Champions League and FA Cup, securing a return to the Champions League next season is a key objective, necessitating improvements to a squad that has demonstrably underperformed relative to last season’s standards.
The struggles of Salah and Gakpo have been particularly concerning. Salah, a cornerstone of Liverpool’s attack in recent years, has seen his form dip, prompting speculation about a potential move to the Saudi Pro League. TEAMtalk reports that Saudi clubs are intensifying their pursuit of the Egyptian international, though any deal would be subject to financial limitations. Gakpo, despite 38 appearances this season, has managed only 12 goal involvements (eight goals, four assists), leading to criticism and questions about his role within Arne Slot’s system.
Romano confirmed that Liverpool are prepared to address the situation, stating, “I think it will be a busy summer for Liverpool with wingers. It’s very clear they need to reinforce their wingers.” He added, “The situation with Salah and Gakpo… In general, I think Liverpool need to add something fresh in that position. I will approach back very soon to tell you more.”
While Liverpool had previously shown interest in Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise, Romano indicates that a deal is unlikely. “Michael Olise is appreciated, but Bayern have no intention at all of letting him go. There’s no release clause in his contract. There are other realistic targets for Liverpool.”
The search for those realistic targets has led the club to focus on Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old winger currently playing for RB Leipzig. TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey reports that Liverpool’s scouts are highly impressed with Diomande, believing he would be an excellent fit for their attacking system. Sources within the Red Bull Group reportedly rate Diomande as their most promising discovery since Erling Haaland.
However, acquiring Diomande will not be easy. Leipzig currently values the Ivory Coast international at €100 million (£87m, $116m) and are determined to hold firm in negotiations, anticipating strong interest from other clubs this summer.
Beyond Diomande, Liverpool are also exploring other options. They have reportedly made enquiries about PSG’s Desire Doue and Bradley Barcola, but those approaches were quickly rebuffed, with the French club signaling they have no intention of selling either player this summer. The club is also linked with a former Aston Villa player, potentially as a replacement for Salah, with a reported cost of around €40m (£35m, $46.5m).
Further bolstering the midfield, Liverpool recently announced a recent long-term contract for Ryan Gravenberch, signaling a commitment to the young Dutch international. The details of the arrangement have come to light, with sources indicating the club is actively pursuing further deals.
The impending changes at Anfield suggest a strategic shift as Liverpool look to rebuild their attack and challenge for honors once again. The pursuit of Yan Diomande underscores their ambition, but the club will need to navigate a complex transfer market and overcome significant financial hurdles to secure their primary targets.