RB Leipzig midfielder Yan Diomande has clarified comments linking him with Liverpool, revealing the Premier League club is his father's favourite rather than his own dream destination
RB Leipzig wonderkid Yan Diomande has been forced to backtrack on claims that Liverpool are his "dream club". The 19-year-old has become one of Europe's most coveted young talents after bursting onto the scene in the Bundesliga. His displays have sparked rumours of a big-money switch to the Premier League, with the Anfield outfit amongst those reportedly monitoring his situation.
The Reds are one of a host of clubs mooted with a move but Bundesliga giants, Bayern Munich are also speculated to hold an interest. A clip recently surfaced on social media that set fans buzzing when the Ivory Coast youngster appeared to say he "wants to play for Liverpool".
However, in a chat with BILD, he's moved to clarify those remarks.
He said: "People made it out to be my dream club. But first and foremost, it's my dad's favourite club.
"It was always his great wish to see me play there someday because he loves the atmosphere at Anfield. He always raved about Steven Gerrard.
"I was too young to see him play. We didn't even have a TV at home for a long time. I have a lot of respect for Liverpool, but my dream club right now is Leipzig."
Legendary Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp now serves as Head of Global Soccer for the Red Bull organisation and has oversight of Leipzig, amongst other clubs, within their stable.
Diomande dismissed any discussions with the German about Liverpool but revealed his respect for the Champions League and Premier League-winning manager. He shared: "No, not that. But we talk every now and then.
"He tells me to stay humble and keep working hard. It was always my dream to play on one of his teams.
"That's not quite possible now. But being so close to him now, talking to him, shaking his hand, it's incredible.
"He's a legend. Sometimes I feel like I'm in a movie."
Liverpool have maintained a positive rapport with Leipzig, having exchanged players over the past decade. The arrivals from East Germany have proven fruitful, with Ibrahima Konate and Dominik Szoboszlai emerging as pivotal figures.
Naby Keita, whose stint at Anfield was marred by injuries, became a fan favourite and left with a Premier League winners medal.
Meanwhile, both Konate and Szoboszlai have become integral members of Arne Slot's squad.
The French centre-back's contract expires this summer, leaving Liverpool in a fight to retain Virgil van Dijk's understudy. Conversely, Szoboszlai has elevated his game since arriving on Merseyside, standing out as the star performer in an otherwise disappointing season for the Reds.
Mohamed Salah said: "He is one of the best players in the world right now. It's good for everyone and I hope we can do it again."