Sankhoun Diawara: Leipzig eye move for Troyes and France-Senegal defender

Sankhoun Diawara, the France-Senegal centre-back currently at Troyes, is being linked with a move to Bundesliga side RB Leipzig. The German club are understood to be monitoring the 20-year-old as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.

Diawara, who stands at 1.90m and is a left-footed central defender, has a contract with Troyes until 30 June 2027, meaning any deal would require negotiations with the French club rather than a free transfer. He is currently valued at around €2m, a figure that is expected to form the starting point for discussions if Leipzig decide to formalise their interest.

Born in Paris on 13 January 2006, Diawara has progressed through the Troyes system since joining their youth ranks as a teenager, stepping up from the U17s to the first team in a series of summer promotions. He was integrated into the senior squad on 1 July 2025 after spells with Troyes U19 and ESTAC Troyes B.

The defender featured in Ligue 2 for Troyes last season, making 14 appearances and providing one assist, and also gained experience in the Coupe de France, where he scored once in four outings. His game time across the first team and reserve levels has given him more than 1,000 league minutes in the second tier.

Leipzig’s interest comes with Diawara still in the early stages of his senior career, and with Troyes holding him under contract for another year beyond this season, the French club remain in a strong position as they assess any approach.