Liverpool's winger hunt pivots to Köln's El Mala as Diomande stalls

Liverpool’s need for a pace‑y winger with one‑on‑one quality has become urgent after their chase for RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande stalled. Sporting director Richard Hughes had launched a raid worth up to €100 million for the 19‑year‑old Ivorian, but the bid was rejected. Multiple reports confirm that Diomande, 19, prefers to move to Paris Saint‑Germain if Leipzig decide to do business this summer. Paris Saint‑Germain are prepared to wait until 2027 to land the Ivorian winger. Said El Mala, 19, enjoyed a breakout Bundesliga season with Köln, scoring 13 league goals and providing four assists. He is also a Germany under‑21 international.

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Köln have set a €50 million price tag for El Mala. Borussia Dortmund’s €35 million bid, coupled with two young players on loan, was rejected. Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Brentford FC have all shown interest in El Mala. Liverpool’s Plan B, driven by Richard Hughes, is to approach the German star if the Diomande deal stalls, with the club ready to provide a substantial budget. Andoni Iraola, Köln’s manager, may need to consider offers to comply with financial rules, which could open a pathway for Liverpool. However, competition from other Premier League suitors and Köln’s valuation remain obstacles to completing the transfer.