United at serious risk of missing out on lightning-fast 19-yo star after big transfer development – report

Manchester United are reportedly at serious risk of missing out on RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande after a major development involving Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain. United want Diomande While United are prioritising midfield reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window, the club could also look to bolster their ranks in the attacking department. Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho are expected to permanently leave the club at the end of the season, leaving the club severely short of options in the left-wing position. With United set to seal a return to the Champions League, they will almost certainly need to address this area of the pitch to ensure there’s quality depth. In addition to Diomande, the Red Devils also continue to be linked to the likes of Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton) and Mateus Mane (Wolverhampton Wanderers). Diomande has lit up the Bundesliga this term, having joined Leipzig last summer from Spanish side CD Leganés. Leipzig forked out around €20m to secure his services. The Ivorian has notched an impressive 12 goals and contributed an additional six assists in 29 top-flight appearances. The lightning-quick winger has notched a top speed of 36.3km/h this season. StatisticValue Goals12 Assists6 Penalties0 Penalties Scored0 Shots on Goal47 Woodwork0 Fouls17 Yellow Cards2 Appearances29 Sprints626 Intensive Runs1909 Distance (km)245 Speed (km/h)36.3 Crosses22 (Stats from Bundesliga) United are not the only team monitoring Diomande. He has also been mentioned to be on Liverpool’s radar. A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Leipzig are keen on handing the player a new and improved contract, which will not have a release clause. In doing so, Leipzig can demand whatever sum they want to sanction his sale. Now, Florian Plettenberg has issued a major update on Diomande’s future. Diomande transfer update According to Plettenberg, Liverpool have designated Diomande their top transfer target to replace Mohamed Salah. The Merseyside club are ramping up their pursuit of the 19-year-old. Liverpool have opened talks with his representatives, which PSG have also done as they aim to steal a march on other suitors. Plettenberg wrote on X, “EXCL | Yan #Diomande is now Liverpool’s top target to replace Mo Salah, with the move approved by all #LFC decision-makers.” “Concrete talks are ongoing with his new representatives at Roc Nation Sports, although no agreement has been reached yet and the clubs have not entered negotiations.” “RB Leipzig are keen to adjust his salary and extend his contract. PSG, led by Luis Campos, are also in the race and have already held a meeting with his agents.” 🚨💣 EXCL | Yan #Diomande is now Liverpool’s top target to replace Mo Salah, with the move approved by all #LFC decision-makers. Concrete talks are ongoing with his new representatives at Roc Nation Sports, although no agreement has been reached yet and the clubs have not… pic.twitter.com/cRbqEqRcBt — Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) April 20, 2026 This development will send alarm bells ringing at United and it remains to be seen whether it jolts the club into action to ensure they’re not beaten to his signature. Feature image Boris Streubel via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Derick Kinoti Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the Premier League extensively for years. His work blends sharp analysis, tactical insight, and engaging storytelling that resonates with fans around the world. Derick has gained valuable experience in football journalism, developing strong expertise in SEO writing, digital content creation, and social media engagement. A tech enthusiast with a Computer Science degree from the University of Nairobi, he ultimately swapped code for football commentary, bringing an analytical, detail-oriented approach to his writing. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!