Manchester United has received a significant boost in their pursuit of forward Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig. The club’s chief executive, Oliver Mintzlaff, acknowledged that the team may consider selling Diomande if the right offer comes along. This development comes as United looks for alternatives to Antoine Semenyo, who is reportedly on the verge of joining rivals Manchester City.
Diomande has emerged as a notable target for United due to his impressive performances this season. The 19-year-old has scored six goals and provided three assists in just 14 Bundesliga appearances. His valuation is estimated to be between £52 million and £61 million, which could make him an attractive option as United strategizes for their future squad.
In an interview with the German publication Welt, Mintzlaff expressed the club’s desire to retain young talents while being realistic about the financial realities of football. He stated, “We want to ensure that we don’t just develop players for one year. But that we can also retain top talents for longer.” He further noted that occasionally, the club would have to let players go to generate transfer fees and maintain a competitive squad. Mintzlaff emphasized the necessity of being open to exceptional offers that could yield significant profits.
While RB Leipzig is keen to keep Diomande, reports suggest that a substantial bid could sway the club’s decision. His current commitment to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Ivory Coast adds another layer of complexity to the transfer discussions. This tournament showcases his talent on an international stage, potentially increasing interest from top clubs across Europe.
United’s interest in Diomande is not isolated. Both Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring his development closely, indicating that competition for his signature will be fierce. Despite the positive signals from Leipzig’s management, Manchester United remains uncertain about making a move during the upcoming January transfer window.
Instead, the club may choose to reassess their options depending on the movements of rival clubs. There is speculation that United could prioritize different positions in the next transfer windows, particularly in midfield. Players such as Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, and Carlos Baleba from Brighton have been linked as potential targets.
As Manchester United navigates this transfer landscape, securing a player like Diomande could significantly enhance their attacking options. The club appears committed to building a strong roster capable of competing at the highest levels, but a strategic approach will be essential in the coming months.
