Yan Diomande, the 19-year-old RB Leipzig forward (under contract until 2030) and Ivory Coast international, had been widely reported as being very close to joining Paris Saint-Germain during this summer transfer window. However, those reports were never officially confirmed. More recently, Real Madrid reportedly moved ahead by matching the German club’s asking price of more than €100 million. On Sunday evening, PSG released an official statement to clarify the situation.
“The transfer fee and salary demands were completely disproportionate and unreasonable.”
PSG has officially withdrawn its interest in Yan Diomande, as well as all offers related to the player.
“The transfer fee and salary demands were completely disproportionate and unreasonable. PSG will not compromise its principles of sound financial management and squad balance.”
“PSG refuses to engage in inflationary bidding wars and the manoeuvres of certain player agents.”
“Furthermore, as the reigning two-time UEFA Champions League winner and the most successful club of recent years, PSG refuses to engage in inflationary bidding wars and the manoeuvres of certain player agents. Instead, the club will continue to pursue its recruitment strategy with calmness and confidence.”
PSG has now made its position perfectly clear, which is a welcome development. The club deserves credit for sticking to its plan and its principles rather than giving in to external pressure. Some clubs and player entourages may try to take advantage of PSG’s considerable financial resources, but the club has no intention of abandoning its philosophy.
There are already plenty of quality players both within the squad and on the market, while the collective remains the priority. PSG is moving forward with confidence, fully trusting in its own strengths.
