Liverpool plan Harvey Elliott swap deal for Leipzig winger Yan Diomande
Liverpool are prepared to offer midfielder Harvey Elliott in a swap deal to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande this summer.
The Merseyside club are looking to back manager Arne Slot in the upcoming transfer window following a profoundly challenging 2025-26 campaign.
Despite winning their last three Premier League matches to strengthen their Champions League qualification hopes, the title defence has been deeply disappointing.
The Anfield outfit have suffered 10 defeats in 34 league fixtures, though club chiefs acknowledge severe mitigating circumstances have plagued their season.
Rebuilding after a tragic and turbulent season
The playing squad was devastated by the tragic death of Diogo Jota last summer, a loss that cast a long shadow over the entire campaign.
Significant injuries to key players, including club-record signing Alexander Isak, have further hampered the team’s progress on the pitch.
Major squad changes are already underway, with stalwarts Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson confirmed to be departing at the end of the season.
Doubts also remain over the futures of several established stars, including Ibrahima Konate, who has yet to agree terms on a new contract.
Elliott swap to lower massive valuation
Times journalist Paul Joyce indicates that the English giants are assessing a move for Diomande, but face a daunting £85m asking price set by his Bundesliga employers.
To reduce that massive financial outlay, the Reds are considering using Elliott as a high-value makeweight in any formal negotiations.
The 23-year-old playmaker has endured a frustrating season on loan at Aston Villa under Unai Emery.
Despite arriving at Villa Park with an obligation to buy if he reached 10 appearances, the English midfielder found his minutes severely restricted by the Spanish coach.
Tracking Europe’s next breakout star
Leipzig previously showed concrete interest in Elliott, reportedly preparing a £20m bid for the youth international before his ill-fated Midlands switch.
In Diomande, the Anfield hierarchy believe they have identified a potential long-term successor to the departing Salah.
The 19-year-old Ivory Coast international has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted young talents following a stellar breakthrough year.
The lightning-fast attacker has registered 13 goals and nine assists across 33 appearances in all competitions for the German outfit.