Yan Diomande had the option to join Chelsea before deciding on a move to RB Leipzig, but the 19-year-old opted for a different path.
He is currently one of Germany’s top young talents. With Leipzig not participating in the Champions League this season, their focus has shifted entirely to the Bundesliga, where the Ivorian winger has been excelling.
This season, Diomande has scored eight goals and provided three assists from his position on the wing, showing impressive performance early in his career.
The former Leganes player, who has succeeded at the Red Bull Arena, shared insights about his journey to the club, including his choice to turn down Chelsea.
Yan Diomande’s path from Leganes to RB Leipzig
Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Diomande does not regret his decision to decline Chelsea, one of the world’s largest clubs.
His choice to play for Leganes before moving to Leipzig has allowed him to continue developing as a player, something he felt might not have happened at Chelsea.
In a conversation with Bild, Diomande said, “Many people told me I should definitely go to Chelsea. I paused and made my own decision. I was familiar with the president of Leganes, who assisted with my move to the USA.
“Then I had to choose: Leganes or Chelsea? It was a risk, but it turned out to be the right one. Patience is key in football. It’s not solely about money. If you perform well, success will come. I’m young and need playing time to develop my skills. I wouldn’t have that on the bench.”
Chelsea also has young wingers like Estevao Willian and Geovany Quenda.
The 18-year-old Brazilian recently scored his seventh goal of the season during a 4-0 victory over Hull City in the FA Cup.
Chelsea remains interested in Diomande even with these young talents already in their squad.
Yan Diomande might be a Chelsea player one day
Despite reports last month of Chelsea’s ongoing interest in Diomande, reaching an agreement won’t be easy.
Other major clubs in Europe are also keeping an eye on him, and the asking price is expected to be high.
Christian Falk from CF Bayern Insider reported that Leipzig has set an £87m price tag for Diomande. This hefty amount has already deterred Bayern Munich, and it’s uncertain whether Chelsea will consider matching it.