Despite Diomande's Statements, Liverpool Initiates Talks with RB Leipzig for Winger

Despite earlier statements from Yan Diomande expressing his desire to play for Paris Saint-Germain, citing his fandom for the club, Liverpool is currently in the strongest position to sign the RB Leipzig winger, according to David Ornstein and Sky Sports. Sources indicate that the Merseyside club is the first to have made a direct inquiry to the "Red Bulls," although no official offer has yet been submitted from Anfield.

Leipzig maintains that the 19-year-old winger is not for sale and would only consider a transfer for a fee of at least 130 million euros. The previously rumored price was 100 million.

Diomande, who scored 13 goals and provided 10 assists last season, is under contract until 2030, with no specific release clause, Ornstein insists. Liverpool reportedly sees him as a potential successor to Mohamed Salah. Paris Saint-Germain continues to show interest in the Ivorian, but they are not as advanced in their pursuit as Liverpool at this moment.

Interestingly, the Reds are also reportedly interested in PSG's versatile forward, Bradley Barcola. Some sources suggest he is an alternative option to Diomande, while others believe Liverpool might attempt to sign both players.