In a significant development that could reshape Liverpool’s summer recruitment plans, Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly decided to step away from their pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, handing the Reds a major opportunity to revive their long-standing interest in the Ivorian star.The 20 July 2026 report marks a dramatic twist in one of the transfer window’s most high-profile sagas. Liverpool, still seeking a marquee replacement for Mohamed Salah—who was granted permission to leave Anfield in March—had identified Diomande as their primary target early in the window. The club even submitted a substantial €100 million (£85 million) bid, which Leipzig ultimately rejected.From Near-Miss to Fresh HopeDiomande’s path appeared to be firmly headed toward the Parc des Princes last month when widespread reports indicated he had agreed personal terms with the French champions. Weeks of negotiations followed between PSG and Leipzig, with the German club eager to retain their talented attacker for at least another season.However, Ivorian journalist Malick Traoré has now delivered encouraging news for Liverpool supporters. According to Traoré, PSG are set to “pass” on the Diomande deal due to significant complexities surrounding image rights. The player is currently represented by Roc Nation, while still under contract with another agency (Maxidel), leading to a dispute that has been referred to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).Traoré’s update on X outlined the situation clearly: “Due to the complexity of the file (image rights…), PSG will pass on the Yan Diomandé file… New target of the European champion: Eli Kroupi Jr.” He further explained the dual-agency complications, noting that previous representatives had been in talks with Liverpool and Bayern Munich, while Roc Nation pushed for a move to PSG.Competitive Landscape and Arsenal InterestThe door is now potentially reopening for Liverpool, but they are not alone. Arsenal have also made enquiries in recent days after missing out on Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. While Diomande had personal terms agreed with PSG, the current uncertainty has prompted other clubs to explore possibilities.Liverpool have already strengthened their attacking options with the signing of Victor Munoz from Osasuna for approximately €40 million, but the need for a high-caliber winger to fill the void left by Salah remains pressing. Diomande, a dynamic and technically gifted wide player, represents the kind of exciting, high-upside talent that would excite fans on the Kop.What Happens Next?The image rights dispute and CAS involvement add layers of uncertainty that could delay any resolution. Leipzig remain reluctant sellers, and the valuation—reportedly in the region of €110 million—remains a significant hurdle. Nevertheless, PSG’s withdrawal removes the most formidable rival from the equation, at least in the immediate term, giving Liverpool a genuine window of opportunity.For Liverpool supporters, this development is a welcome boost after weeks of frustration. Whether the Reds can navigate the complexities, meet Leipzig’s demands, and convince Diomande to choose Anfield over other suitors will be one of the defining storylines of the remaining summer transfer window.The coming days are likely to bring further clarity as clubs reassess their strategies in light of PSG’s decision. One thing is certain: the race for Yan Diomande is very much back on.
