Arsenal Champions League final opponents suffer transfer setback ahead of Budapest clash

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Paris Saint-Germain have encountered a significant obstacle in their pursuit of one of Europe’s most promising young talents, just days before facing Arsenal in the Champions League final in Budapest.

The French giants had positioned themselves at the front of the race to sign RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande, valued at close to £90million. However, according to Football London, Liverpool have now moved ahead of PSG in the battle for the 19-year-old Ivorian’s signature.

Diomande enjoyed a breakout campaign with Leipzig following his arrival from Spanish side Leganes in July 2025. Operating effectively on either flank, the winger contributed 13 goals and nine assists across 36 appearances for the Bundesliga club, while also representing the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Leipzig determined to keep rising star

The setback comes as Leipzig chairman Oliver Mintzlaff has expressed strong determination to retain Diomande’s services. Despite the mounting interest from Europe’s elite clubs, Mintzlaff recently stated his position clearly.

“If I were sporting director, I wouldn’t sell this young player, who hasn’t even completed a full season with us yet,” he said. “No matter what price is being offered. I believe he’s a player who still has room to develop, because he’s still very young.”

Leipzig’s qualification for next season’s Champions League strengthens their negotiating position, potentially allowing them to resist offers and retain the talented winger for another campaign.

PSG face financial constraints

For PSG to secure Diomande’s signature this summer, Luis Enrique’s side would need to offload players first, adding another layer of complexity to any potential deal. The club does have alternative targets in their search for wide forwards, though few match Diomande’s potential and current ability.

The young winger, contracted until June 2030, has not hidden his excitement about transfer speculation linking him with Europe’s biggest clubs. “Imagine people say you go to Chelsea or Real Madrid to do this job… you’re going to be happy and motivated to do more,” Diomande said this season.

Liverpool’s improved position in the race reflects their search for Mohamed Salah’s long-term successor, with the Egyptian’s future at Anfield remaining uncertain. The Reds’ ability to move ahead of PSG demonstrates the competitiveness of the modern transfer market, where financial muscle alone doesn’t guarantee success.

As PSG prepare to face Arsenal in next Saturday’s Champions League final, the transfer setback adds another consideration to what promises to be a crucial summer for the Parisian club’s long-term ambitions.