Manchester United step up interest in Ivorian winger Yan Diomande amid growing transfer race

Manchester United are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s rising star Yan Diomande ahead of next summer’s transfer window, as competition for the Ivorian attacker begins to heat up.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the market is expected to accelerate quickly, and Diomande has already positioned himself as one of the most sought-after names.

Since emerging as a breakout performer for RB Leipzig in the summer of 2025, the attacking midfielder has drawn significant attention from Europe’s elite.

Clubs such as Liverpool FC, FC Bayern Munich, and Paris Saint-Germain have all been linked with the 22-year-old. Leipzig, however, are understood to be relaxed about the situation, partly because Diomande’s contract does not reportedly include a release clause.

That stance could be tested if the Bundesliga side miss out on Champions League qualification, which may alter their financial outlook.

Recent reports indicate that Manchester United have now taken a more concrete step, placing additional pressure on the German club. The Red Devils are keen to reinforce their attacking flanks and are said to be narrowing down a shortlist of priority targets.

Journalist Ben Jacobs offered a strong indication of United’s position, stating, “Manchester United are very seriously interested in Yan Diomande. According to my information from reliable sources, Manchester United’s interest in Yan Diomande is actually greater than Manchester United’s interest in Anthony Gordon.”

For context, Anthony Gordon of Newcastle United has frequently been associated with a move to Old Trafford. However, Diomande is reportedly viewed as the more appealing option internally.

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur are also believed to have made enquiries with the player’s representatives. Yet their position appears more complicated. According to Jacobs, Spurs’ uncertain sporting trajectory beyond the 2025 and 2026 campaign, including concerns about a potential relegation battle, could make a move less attractive for a player of Diomande’s profile.

As interest gathers momentum, Leipzig may soon face mounting pressure to defend their prized asset in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched transfer sagas of the coming window.