Gakpo's Liverpool Future in Doubt as Diomande Swap Deal Emerges

Cody Gakpo's Liverpool career could take an unexpected turn this summer, with the Reds potentially offering him as part of a swap arrangement to prise Yan Diomande away from RB Leipzig.

The 19-year-old Ivorian winger has emerged as a prime target for Andoni Iraola's side, with the new Liverpool manager holding him in high regard. However, Leipzig have made clear their reluctance to part with their prized asset, demanding a fee exceeding €130million (£112.4m, $151.2m) – a considerable outlay for an unproven Premier League commodity.

David Ornstein reported this week that PSG, despite their own interest, are not as far advanced as Liverpool in the pursuit. Yet Leipzig remain confident Diomande will remain put, believing another campaign in the Bundesliga will accelerate both his development and market value. Crucially, the teenager shows no signs of agitating for an exit.

Enter Gakpo. The Netherlands international has attracted attention from rival clubs, and now appears surplus to requirements at Anfield – at least in Iraola's eyes. Sources indicate the 24-year-old harbours reservations about his standing in the pecking order, with emerging teenage sensation Rio Ngumoha potentially blocking his path to regular football. Gakpo's representatives have begun exploring alternative options as discussions between Liverpool and the Red Bull group continue.

Liverpool are not actively seeking to offload the winger, though they would entertain offers should they arrive. Tottenham are among the clubs reportedly considering a bid.

The Diomande saga is further complicated by the player's long-standing admiration for PSG. Speaking ahead of the World Cup, the Ivorian expressed his childhood affection for the Parisians: "Paris Saint-Germain is a team I've loved since I was a child. My father supports Paris Saint-Germain, and it's a team I admire as a football fan. It would be a pleasure for me to come and play here with one of the biggest clubs."

He added that adapting to life in France would prove straightforward given the language spoken there, though he insisted his focus remained on international matters rather than speculating on his club future.