The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is well underway as the Ivory Coast look to defend their continental crown. Two Premier League clubs gaze at one of their finest.
Emerse Fae led Les Elephants to glory last year as their interim manager. He got the job permanently as a reward for his excellence. This time around, the defending champions got their title defense off to a positive start as they secured a 1-0 win against Mozambique. Manchester United's Amad Diallo scored the solitary goal of the game and was named Man of the Match for his contribution. One of his compatriots could be on his way to Old Trafford in the future if he carries on in the same trajectory.
While Diallo was stationed on the right wing for the Ivorians, Yan Diomande. He has made waves with his performances for RB Leipzig this season, started on the left side of the attack.
The young winger has been one of the breakout stars of the Bundesliga season with his devastating displays in attack. Earning rave reviews of his performances and also a national team call-up for AFCON.
Fabrizio Romano claims Manchester United and Tottenham are keeping a close eye on the 19-year-old. While other clubs in the Premier League are also believed to be interested.
"We have to mention Yan Diomande. In this case, we have to mention the Premier League clubs," said Romano on his YouTube channel.
"I'm told there are several Premier League clubs following this boy, who is playing for RB Leipzig and doing so well for the Ivory Coast at the AFCON. He's a very talented winger - with dribbling and pace.
"What I can tell you is that among many clubs, recently, Manchester United and Tottenham were on a mission to scout this boy. They are among the clubs scouting Yan Diomande, who is considered a talent to watch for the future. An interesting situation to keep an eye on."
Swapping Levante for Leipzig in the summer of 2025 for a fee believed to be in the region of £17m. Diomande has taken to the Bundesliga like a duck to water.
With seven goals and four assists to his name across 16 appearances in all competitions. The 19-year-old has quickly emerged as one of football's brightest attacking talents. He looks set to secure a big-money move at some point in the future.
According to Florian Plettenberg, Leipzig value him at around £87m and are under no pressure to sell, having already parted ways with Lois Openda, Benjamin Sesko and Xavi Simons this year.
Diomande clearly has the world at his feet and it remains to be seen if he secures a transfer in 2026. One thing is for sure - his potential suitors will have to break the bank to secure his signature if he carries on in the same trajectory.
