June 22, 2026

The African Tribune

Bold, independent reporting on Africa's most important stories, in English, every day.

PSG targeting 2026 World Cup star with Luis Enrique’s backing

Paris Saint-Germain eyes top talent for summer transfer surge

As the summer transfer window approaches, Paris Saint-Germain is gearing up for significant squad overhaul after a period of relative quiet in the market. The club has set its sights on a promising young talent—Yan Diomandé, the 19-year-old winger from RB Leipzig. The Ivorian international has emerged as one of the standout performers in the early stages of the 2026 World Cup, further boosting his market value and attracting top European clubs.

Luis Enrique speaking during a press conference

Coach’s personal push for Diomandé’s transfer

Luis Enrique, manager of PSG, has reportedly taken a hands-on approach to secure Diomandé. The Spanish coach sees the young Ivorian as the ideal reinforcement to bolster his starting lineup, particularly if Bradley Barcola departs. However, competition is fierce—Liverpool is equally determined to sign the rising star, and RB Leipzig is holding firm with a minimum asking price of €120 million for the player’s services.

Côte d’Ivoire’s coach weighs in on Diomandé’s future

The tug-of-war over Diomandé has even spilled into the Côte d’Ivoire national team setup. Following their 1-0 victory over Equatorial Guinea, Emerse Faé—head coach of the Elephants—shared his perspective on the young player’s future. «When we were in France for preparation, journalists were saying he’d sign for PSG. Now, upon arriving in the U.S., I hear he might go to Liverpool. We’ll see. I believe he’s fully focused on the World Cup first, then he’ll make the best decision for his career,» Faé remarked during the post-match press conference.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as PSG and other elite clubs scramble to secure the next big talent from Africa’s footballing talent pool.