Liverpool face a monumentally important task this summer: to replace club legend Mohamed Salah.
After nine years at Anfield, the Egyptian left the club last month – and the void he leaves behind is huge.
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During his nine seasons on Merseyside, Salah made 442 appearances, scored 380 goals and secured a number of trophies, including the Champions League and two Premier League titles. Replacing such a player is demanding – and Liverpool are therefore expected to bring in at least two new wingers during the summer.
RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande is the main target for the Reds. Leipzig are likely to demand a sum of over £100 million for the teenager, and Liverpool are far from alone in their interest – PSG are also pushing for the striker. Nevertheless, it seems that the Reds have taken a clear step forward in their pursuit of the Ivorian.
Yan Diomande wants to play for Andoni Iraola
According to Liverpool reporter James William, Diomande is “eager to be part of Iraola’s plans” as Liverpool work to persuade the 19-year-old shooting star. At the same time, TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool have had a “constructive dialogue” with Leipzig – and that Iraola himself is “actively pushing” to get the transfer done.
Liverpool in strong position
With a move to Merseyside as Diomande’s preferred option, Liverpool seem to have an advantage in the fight against PSG and other interested clubs. However, TEAMtalk writes that Leipzig expect a sum of around 130 million euros for the winger, who they themselves brought in from Leganes for about 20 million euros last year alone.
Have Liverpool found their Salah replacement?
It remains to be seen if they will be able to close the deal, but there are many indications that Liverpool have found a worthy successor in Diomande.
The teenager is only 19 years old, but already established at a high level. Last season, he scored 13 goals and had 10 assists in 36 games for Leipzig. He was also the Ivory Coast’s big star when they beat Ecuador 1-0 in their World Cup opener on Monday.
At his best, Salah was dynamic, versatile and deadly in front of goal. These are qualities Diomande already possesses – and with great potential for improvement in a tougher league like the Premier League, he could be the perfect replacement.
Salah’s legacy at Anfield can never be replicated. But in Diomande, Liverpool have probably found a winger who can fill the void left by the Egyptian.
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