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Liverpool have been dealt a significant blow in their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s rising star Yan Diomande.

As reported by The Athletic, the 19-year-old forward has declined interest from the Reds after deciding that Paris Saint-Germain would be his preferred destination if he leaves Germany this summer.

Diomande has been persuaded by PSG’s long-term vision under president Nasser Al-Khelaifi and football advisor Luis Campos. The opportunity to work under head coach Luis Enrique has also been a key factor in his decision-making process.

The Ivory Coast international believes that joining the Ligue 1 champions would provide him with the ideal platform to compete for major trophies and pursue his dream of winning the Ballon d’Or.

Liverpool were reportedly ready to submit a bid in the region of €100 million (£86.8 million) for the highly-rated attacker, but Leipzig turned down the offer.

The Bundesliga side value Diomande closer to €130 million and are continuing to try to convince him to extend his stay, even though his existing contract runs until 2030.

Having joined Leipzig from Leganes only last summer, Diomande enjoyed an impressive debut season, netting 12 Bundesliga goals and providing nine assists in 33 matches.

A versatile forward capable of operating on either wing, Diomande is currently representing Ivory Coast at the World Cup and is expected to play against Norway in the round of 32 on Tuesday.

Should Liverpool decide to end their pursuit, sporting director Richard Hughes already has several alternative targets on his radar.

PSG’s Bradley Barcola has emerged as an intriguing option. Although he now mainly plays on the left, he initially made his mark as a right winger.

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Yankuba Minteh is another player admired by Liverpool. The dynamic forward possesses a playing style reminiscent of Mohamed Salah.

The Reds are also keeping tabs on Lille’s talented Matias Fernandez-Pardo, a versatile frontman capable of featuring across the attacking line and regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young prospects.

With Diomande seemingly set for a move to Paris, Liverpool’s recruitment department is expected to ramp up their search for the perfect alternative before the transfer window closes.