RB Leipzig have identified Sunderland winger Chemsdine Talbi as a potential successor to Yan Diomande, who continues to attract interest from Real Madrid.
According to reports, the Bundesliga side are drawing up contingency plans should Diomande depart for the Spanish capital. The 19-year-old has been heavily linked with Los Blancos in recent weeks, though no agreement has been finalised. Leipzig are therefore scouting alternatives to fill the potential void in their squad before the new campaign gets underway.
Talbi’s rising profile
Talbi, 21, represents Morocco at international level and recently featured prominently at the World Cup, appearing in five of the Atlas Lions’ six matches. He played 85 minutes in their quarter-final defeat to France, demonstrating his capability on the global stage against elite opposition.
At club level, the winger plies his trade for Sunderland in the Championship. He joined the English second-tier outfit and quickly established himself as a key figure in their attacking unit. His combination of pace and creativity has helped elevate his reputation beyond English football, drawing admiring glances from continental clubs seeking emerging talent.
Contract situation and next steps
Any prospective deal faces significant hurdles. Talbi is tied to a long-term contract with Sunderland running until 2030, giving the English club substantial leverage in negotiations. This extended commitment means Leipzig would likely need to pay a substantial fee to secure his services, complicating any potential approach.
Despite Leipzig’s admiration for the Moroccan, reports indicate no contact has yet been established between the German club and Sunderland. The situation remains in the preliminary monitoring phase as Leipzig assess their options ahead of the transfer window.
The proposed move would see Talbi replace a fellow teenager in Diomande, though any transfer depends first on whether Real Madrid successfully lure the current Leipzig player away. Until Diomande’s future is resolved, Talbi is likely to remain one of several candidates under consideration by the Bundesliga club.