Liverpool’s pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande is turning into a genuine headache. The Reds already had an $87 million offer rejected, and now reports suggest even $100 million might not get it done.
According to Sky Sports, Leipzig is holding firm on their valuation of the 23-year-old Ivorian. That’s a problem for Liverpool, who clearly see Diomande as a guy who can unlock defenses from either wing. He’s currently at the World Cup with Ivory Coast and has been one of their brighter players on the international stage.
Diomande’s numbers from last season back up the hype. In 28 Bundesliga starts, he racked up 12 goals and 8 assists. That kind of production from a winger who can play both sides doesn’t come cheap, and Leipzig knows it.
The interesting thing here is that Liverpool is usually disciplined in the market. They walk away when prices get silly. But this one feels different. They’ve already gone in with a serious offer and gotten told no. If they really want him, they’re going to have to break their own transfer record and then some.
City Eyeing Anderson as Rodri’s Partner
Manchester City is pushing hard for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, according to Fabrizio Romano. The two clubs held another round of talks recently, and the numbers involved are eye-watering.
Forest values the England international at $130 million. That’s a lot for a midfielder who started 37 league games last season, but Anderson is also at the World Cup representing England, and his stock just keeps rising. City sees him as the ideal midfield partner for Rodri. The Spaniard needs someone who can cover ground and create chances from deeper positions, and Anderson fits that description perfectly. Word is the player himself wants the move.
Whether City actually pays $130 million is another question. They have the money, obviously, but even for a club like that, there’s a limit.
Bellamy to Burnley Off
Craig Bellamy’s move to Burnley has collapsed. Sky Sports reports the deal is dead, and the Championship club has already moved on to other targets. Steve Cooper and Rob Edwards are now in the mix.
Bellamy was apparently close to taking over and leading Burnley into next season. But something fell through, and now the club is starting over with their search. Cooper has Premier League experience from his time at Nottingham Forest. Edwards did good work at Luton. Either way, Burnley needs to get this sorted soon. Preseason isn’t that far off.
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