Morocco’s Talbi linked with RB Leipzig move as Yan Diomande future remains uncertain

RB Leipzig have reportedly identified Morocco international Chemsdine Talbi as a potential replacement for Yan Diomande as uncertainty continues to surround the Ivorian forward’s future.

According to French outlet Foot Mercato, the Bundesliga side have added the Sunderland winger to their shortlist of attacking targets amid growing speculation that Diomande could join Real Madrid.

However, no talks have taken place between Leipzig and Sunderland, with the German club’s interest understood to be at an early stage and dependent on Diomande leaving the club this summer.

Real Madrid interest forces Leipzig to consider alternatives

Leipzig’s search for attacking reinforcements comes as Real Madrid continue to be linked with a move for Diomande.

Reports suggest that the Spanish giants have already agreed personal terms with the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international, although no official announcement has been made.

Despite the interest, Leipzig remain in a strong position because Diomande is under contract until 2030.

The forward enjoyed an outstanding first campaign in Germany, scoring 12 Bundesliga goals and earning the league’s Rookie of the Season award, performances that have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.

Talbi’s qualities attract Bundesliga club

Talbi is believed to have caught Leipzig’s attention because of his pace, versatility and ability to operate in several attacking positions.

The 21-year-old made 30 appearances in all competitions for Sunderland during the 2025-26 season, scoring four goals after joining the Premier League club from Belgian side Club Brugge a year earlier.

Sunderland handed the Moroccan a five-year contract upon his arrival, tying him to the club until 2030.

As a result, any potential move would require negotiations with the English club, which has given no indication that it intends to part ways with the winger.

Rise from Belgium to the world stage

A product of Club Brugge’s academy, Talbi made his senior debut in 2023 before enjoying a breakthrough campaign in 2024-25.

His reputation soared after scoring twice against Atalanta in the Champions League knockout rounds and helping Club Brugge lift the Belgian Cup.

Having previously represented Belgium at youth level, Talbi later switched allegiance to Morocco and was included in the Atlas Lions squad for the 2026 World Cup.

The winger made his tournament debut in Morocco’s 1-1 draw against Brazil and remained part of the squad as the North Africans reached the quarter-finals for the second successive World Cup.

Transfer remains at an early stage

Leipzig have built a reputation for signing young players with significant development potential, and Talbi’s profile appears to fit that recruitment model.

His age, attacking qualities and experience in both Belgium and England make him an attractive option for the Bundesliga club.

For now, though, any move remains speculative. Unless Diomande completes a transfer and Leipzig open discussions with Sunderland, Talbi remains a player under consideration rather than the subject of active negotiations.