Liverpool Linked with Summer Move for Yan Diomande, Potential Funding Through Gakpo Sale
Liverpool are reportedly eyeing RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande as a potential long-term successor to Mohamed Salah, with Bayern Munich also in the mix. However, a complex transfer scenario is unfolding that could see Liverpool indirectly finance the deal through the sale of Cody Gakpo to their German rivals.
According to reports, Bayern Munich believe Diomande has already reached a personal agreement with Liverpool for a move in the summer transfer window. Liverpool manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes identified the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international as a key target as early as December 9, 2025.
RB Leipzig are expected to demand a substantial fee for Diomande, reportedly at least €100 million (£88m, $118m). The winger has impressed in his debut season with the German club, scoring nine goals and registering six assists in 24 appearances across all competitions since joining from Leganes in the summer of 2025.
Bayern Pivot to Gakpo as Alternative
Despite their interest in Diomande, Bayern Munich are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. This shift in strategy comes after believing Diomande has already committed to a move to Anfield. Bayern Space, a reputable source on X (formerly Twitter) praised by The Daily Mail’s Merseyside correspondent Lewis Steele, reported growing internal discussion within Bayern about pursuing Gakpo as an alternative on the left wing.
The report suggests that influential figures at Bayern believe Gakpo would thrive in the Bundesliga’s open transitional spaces, similar to Luis Díaz. Indications from Gakpo’s representatives suggest a potential willingness to consider a move, leading some within Bayern to believe Liverpool’s existing agreement with Diomande could be a reality.
The potential irony of the situation is that Bayern could end up funding Liverpool’s acquisition of Diomande by paying up to £65 million (€75 million) for Gakpo. This would effectively provide Liverpool with the financial resources to meet RB Leipzig’s hefty asking price for the Ivorian winger.
Doubts Over Gakpo Move from Other Sources
However, not all reports align with the suggestion of a strong Bayern interest in Gakpo. Football Insider journalist Pete O’Rourke suggests Bayern may not prioritize a move for the Dutch forward, given Luis Díaz’s success in the Bundesliga. O’Rourke also notes that Liverpool may not be actively looking to sell Gakpo, particularly as he remains a key player for Arne Slot, despite some criticism from fans.
O’Rourke did suggest that Liverpool could consider selling Gakpo if they bring in another left-sided attacker this summer, but emphasized that the player is currently under contract until 2030 and appears content at Anfield.
Matthaus Advises Bayern Against Diomande Pursuit
Adding another layer to the complexity, former Bayern Munich midfielder Lothar Matthaus has publicly advised the club against pursuing Diomande, citing his price tag and perceived lack of readiness to surpass Luis Díaz in the pecking order. Matthaus believes Bayern should instead focus on Hoffenheim’s Bazoumana Toure as a more sensible and affordable option.
“For a player who can’t get past (Luis) Diaz right now, that’s too expensive,” Matthaus stated. “Bayern can save that money.”
Liverpool’s Other Transfer Targets
Beyond the Diomande and Gakpo situations, Liverpool are also reportedly exploring other potential transfer targets. Reports indicate the club is monitoring players at Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United, including Lucas Bergvall, a Tottenham gem, and a Leeds United centre-back, though specific details remain scarce.
The summer transfer window promises to be an active one for Liverpool, as Arne Slot looks to reshape the squad and build a team capable of challenging for major honors. The pursuit of Yan Diomande, potentially funded by the sale of Cody Gakpo, represents a fascinating and potentially lucrative piece of the puzzle.
