In a stunning twist that could reshape Liverpool’s attacking future, RB Leipzig’s teenage sensation Yan Diomande has emerged as the prime candidate to succeed Mohamed Salah—and he couldn’t have timed his breakout performance any better. As whispers of Salah’s potential departure grow louder, Diomande unleashed a merciless 18-minute hat-trick in Leipzig’s 6-0 demolition of Eintracht Frankfurt, with Liverpool’s top brass in attendance to scout the Ivorian prodigy firsthand. The chase for the versatile forward is now officially underway, and Anfield could be his next destination as early as January.
The drama unfolded on Saturday evening at the Red Bull Arena, where Leipzig ran riot against Frankfurt in a Bundesliga masterclass. Diomande, deployed on the right flank of a front three—a position he’s favored this season—stole the spotlight with an explosive second-half display. Fresh off the interval, the 18-year-old netted three goals in just 18 minutes, turning a comfortable lead into a rout and claiming the match ball. His performance wasn’t just clinical; it was a statement of intent from a player the Red Bull organization views as their brightest prospect since Erling Haaland.
TEAMtalk sources confirm that Liverpool sent a full delegation to Leipzig for the match, joining over a dozen other clubs eager to witness Diomande’s talents up close. Our insiders revealed earlier this week that the Reds have been quietly exploring a potential deal for the teenager, who only joined Leipzig in the summer. While Leipzig are reluctant to part ways with their starlet, acknowledging the mounting interest from Europe’s elite, Liverpool’s need for attacking reinforcements has intensified amid uncertainty surrounding Salah’s long-term future.
Ironically, as Diomande was lighting up Germany, Salah was confined to the bench during Liverpool’s chaotic 3-3 draw at Leeds United’s Elland Road. The Egyptian king didn’t feature for a single minute, watching as his teammates twice squandered leads before settling for a point. But it was Salah’s post-match interview that truly ignited the firestorm—his candid, jaw-dropping comments casting doubt on his commitment to the club and even appearing to undermine manager Arne Slot. “I’m not sure about my future here,” Salah reportedly said, fueling speculation that his Anfield era could be nearing its end.
This comes at a pivotal moment for Liverpool, who are actively seeking options to bolster their frontline. Diomande’s ability to play anywhere across the attack makes him an ideal fit, potentially filling the void left by Salah should the 33-year-old depart. Saudi Pro League officials are increasingly confident of luring Salah to the Middle East, with sources indicating they’re ready to push for a January transfer. If that materializes, Diomande could be fast-tracked as his direct replacement, bringing youthful energy and proven goal-scoring prowess to Slot’s squad.
Elsewhere in Liverpool news, rumors of a managerial shake-up have been firmly quashed. An in-the-know journalist has dismissed any chance of the club pursuing a high-profile Premier League boss as Slot’s successor, aligning with TEAMtalk’s sources who downplay such links to the 51-year-old tactician. Additionally, despite recent criticism from the Real Madrid media, Jude Bellingham has earned glowing praise following his latest exploits—though wild speculation about a swap deal involving Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister remains just that: speculation.
As the January window looms, all eyes are on Diomande. Liverpool’s delegation didn’t just watch a hat-trick; they witnessed the birth of a potential heir to Salah’s throne. The chase is on—will Anfield secure the Ivorian gem before rivals swoop in? Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.