Assan Ouédraogo to join Liverpool?

Liverpool are reportedly monitoring RB Leipzig midfielder Assan Ouédraogo as Arne Slot continues his search for the next elite young talent capable of transforming the club’s midfield for the long term.

The 19-year-old German has rapidly become one of the most talked-about young midfielders in Europe after an impressive breakthrough season in the Bundesliga. Standing at 6ft 3in, Ouédraogo combines physicality, technical quality and powerful ball carrying ability, leading some scouts in Germany to compare aspects of his game to Paul Pogba and Ryan Gravenberch.

During the 2025-26 campaign, Ouédraogo registered three Bundesliga goals and three assists while emerging as a regular starter for RB Leipzig in the second half of the season. He also averaged strong progressive carrying numbers and ranked highly among Leipzig midfielders for successful dribbles and duel wins. Despite his age, he has already shown maturity in possession and a willingness to drive games forward under pressure.

Liverpool’s interest is not entirely new. The club had tracked Ouédraogo during his Schalke days before Leipzig won the race for his signature in 2024. Now, after his breakout season in Germany, Liverpool are believed to be back in the picture as they continue reshaping their midfield around younger, athletic profiles.

Financially, however, any move would be difficult. Reports across Germany suggest Liverpool could test Leipzig with an opening offer in the region of €40 million, but the Bundesliga side are expected to demand significantly more. Estimates currently place his likely transfer value somewhere between €45-60 million, although some reports claim Leipzig internally value him even higher due to his age, contract length and enormous potential.

Competition for his signature is also growing rapidly. Newcastle United, Manchester United, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid have all reportedly monitored the midfielder in recent months. Leipzig remain in a strong negotiating position with Ouédraogo under contract until 2029 and no major pressure to sell this summer.