RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande has revealed he once held talks with Mauricio Pochettino during a trial at Chelsea before the move unexpectedly collapsed.
The 19-year-old is now regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young attackers after a sensational season in Germany, but things could have turned out very differently had Chelsea decided to move for him earlier in his career.
Instead, Diomande eventually joined Leganés before exploding into prominence at RB Leipzig.
Yan Diomande opens up on Chelsea trial
Speaking in an interview with So Foot, the winger explained he underwent several trials across Europe before signing professionally in Spain.
Chelsea were among the clubs strongly interested at the time.
“Then at Chelsea, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace, Olympiacos. They all went well on the pitch. At Chelsea, I even spoke with Mauricio Pochettino.” — Yan Diomande
However, despite the positive experience, the move never materialised.
“But then, I don’t know what happened, it didn’t work out.” — Yan Diomande
The winger admitted the setbacks eventually left him frustrated before Leganés offered him clarity and a professional pathway.
Chelsea now watching from distance
Chelsea have previously been linked with Diomande again following his rise at RB Leipzig, but reports now suggest the financial reality may place the winger beyond their current plans.
The Ivory Coast international is reportedly valued between €100m and €150m after an outstanding Bundesliga campaign.
| Yan Diomande 2025/26 | Record |
|---|---|
| Current club | RB Leipzig |
| Bundesliga goals | 12 |
| Bundesliga assists | 9 |
| Reported valuation | €100m-€150m |
source: player and reported transfer data – 27 May 2026
Having followed Chelsea’s recent recruitment strategy, the club often moved aggressively for elite young talents before they fully exploded onto the global stage. Missing out on Diomande earlier now looks particularly painful given his current market value.
Liverpool, Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City are all reportedly monitoring the winger closely.
Leganés decision changed everything
Diomande also explained how close he came to giving up on the complicated trial process entirely.
After several uncertain experiences, the youngster decided to leave his agent and take direct control of his future.
“I called the president of Leganés and went there to sign a professional contract.” — Yan Diomande
That decision ultimately transformed his career trajectory.
Only a few years later, Diomande is now one of the most coveted attacking players in Europe and potentially heading towards one of football’s biggest transfers.
However, it remains too early to know whether any club will ultimately meet RB Leipzig’s enormous valuation this summer.
Key Points
- Yan Diomande revealed he spoke with Mauricio Pochettino at Chelsea
- The winger completed a trial at Stamford Bridge earlier in his career
- Chelsea ultimately decided against signing him
- Diomande later joined Leganés before moving to RB Leipzig
- The 19-year-old is now valued between €100m and €150m
What's next
Europe’s biggest clubs are expected to continue monitoring Diomande throughout the summer and World Cup period.
RB Leipzig, meanwhile, may attempt to secure the winger to an improved long-term contract as they try to protect one of their most valuable assets.
Did Chelsea make a huge mistake by not signing Yan Diomande earlier?
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