Romano: Summer transfer ‘battle’ now anticipated for attacking sensation who Man Utd want and ‘can afford’

Manchester United are bracing themselves for a summer scramble after transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reported that a “battle” is expected for RB Leipzig’s teenage phenomenon Yan Diomande, a player United both covet and, crucially, “can afford”.

Diomande, 19, has exploded onto the Bundesliga scene since arriving at Leipzig in July 2025 for £17.4 million after the German club triggered his release clause at Spanish side Leganes. In 21 league outings he has already contributed eight goals and five assists, the latest coming in yesterday’s 2-2 draw with Wolfsburg that kept Leipzig firmly in the European conversation.

The Ivorian’s impact has not been confined to club football. Already a nine-time senior international, Diomande added five more caps and a goal during the recent African Cup of Nations, lining up alongside United winger Amad Diallo for the Ivory Coast.

German football expert Christian Falk confirmed on Friday that United are “well amongst the mix of suitors” tracking the forward and that Old Trafford chiefs believe they can meet whatever fee Leipzig ultimately set. That figure is expected to approach £87 million should the Bundesliga outfit be forced into a sale.

United’s need for fresh firepower is acute. Marcus Rashford is poised to join Barcelona for £26 million once his loan becomes permanent, Napoli are set to secure Rasmus Hojlund for £38 million, and Jadon Sancho will depart on a free transfer when his contract expires in June. With Champions League qualification still a possibility, reinforcements are viewed as essential.

Romano’s weekend update adds that Bayern Munich and a clutch of Premier League rivals will join United in what promises to be one of the window’s most hotly-contested pursuits, ensuring Leipzig are likely to field multiple offers for the 19-year-old.

For now, Diomande’s focus remains on finishing the campaign strongly, but the summer spotlight is already fixed firmly on the Ivorian prodigy.