Rabat – RB Leipzig have added Morocco international Chemsdine Talbi to their shortlist of possible attacking reinforcements as uncertainty continues over Yan Diomande’s future.
According to French outlet Foot Mercato, Leipzig view the Sunderland winger as a potential replacement for Diomande, who is the subject of advanced interest from Real Madrid.
The report stresses that no direct discussions have taken place between Leipzig and Sunderland. The German club’s interest is therefore at an early stage, with any approach likely to depend on Diomande completing a move away from the Bundesliga side.
Real Madrid have reportedly agreed personal terms with Diomande, but the Spanish club have not announced his signing.
Leipzig remain in a strong negotiating position because the 19-year-old Côte d’Ivoire international is under contract until 2030.
Diomande enjoyed an impressive debut season in Germany, scoring 12 Bundesliga goals and being named the competition’s Rookie of the Season.
His performances for Leipzig and Côte d’Ivoire have made him one of the summer market’s most sought-after young attackers.
Talbi’s profile appeals to Leipzig
Talbi is reportedly admired by Leipzig because of his speed, ability to carry the ball and versatility across the attacking positions.
The 21-year-old scored four goals in 30 appearances for Sunderland across all competitions during the 2025–2026 season, according to Foot Mercato. He established himself as a Premier League option after joining the English club from Club Brugge in July 2025.
Sunderland signed Talbi on a five-year contract, meaning he remains tied to the Stadium of Light until 2030.
Any transfer would consequently require an agreement with the Premier League club, which has given no public indication that it plans to sell him.
Talbi developed in Club Brugge’s academy and made his senior debut in 2023.
His profile rose significantly during the 2024–2025 campaign, when he scored twice against Atalanta in the Champions League knockout phase and helped the Belgian club win the domestic cup.
He later chose to represent Morocco at senior international level after previously playing for Belgium’s youth teams.
Talbi was part of the Atlas Lions’ squad at the 2026 World Cup and made his tournament debut in Morocco’s 1-1 group-stage draw against Brazil.
The winger remained involved as Morocco reached the quarter-finals for the second consecutive World Cup, further increasing his international experience at a young age. Sunderland confirmed that Talbi was among the club’s players still involved when the tournament reached the round of 16.
Leipzig have a record of recruiting young players with resale potential and developing them in the Bundesliga.
Talbi’s age, direct playing style and experience in Belgium and England appear to fit that strategy.
However, the situation remains dependent on Diomande’s possible departure. Until Leipzig approach Sunderland or submit an offer, Talbi should be regarded as a player under consideration rather than the subject of active transfer negotiations.
