Two Manchester United transfer targets, Yan Diomande and Elliot Anderson, are showcasing a shared dominant strength in the Bundesliga and the Premier League, respectively.
Manchester United’s top priority for midfield in 2026 is now clear, with Elliot Anderson taking the lead ahead of summer. His recent performance against Liverpool has only increased that focus.
Meanwhile, Ineos are also searching for a left-sided winger, and there is growing interest in Yan Diomande.
The 19-year-old has been turning heads at RB Leipzig, and Amad Diallo’s relationship with him – built during their time together with Ivory Coast at AFCON – could play a role in any future move.
United consider Diomande to be a player of rare potential, with his numbers from the Bundesliga supporting that view.
Yan Diomande is thriving in duels throughout the Bundesliga
Diomande has been a reliable playmaker for Leipzig this season, with eight goals and six assists in 22 league matches.
But it is his work without the ball that stands out even more. According to league data, no one in Germany’s top division has won more duels than the 19-year-old winger, who leads the way with 279 this campaign.
Despite playing on the wing, he is ahead of Kaishu Sano by 28 duels. This highlights just how much he impacts games beyond his attacking numbers.
He is also one of the quickest players in the league, having clocked a top speed of 36.3km/h.
Elliot Anderson and Yan Diomande are taking over in duel stats
Given the current state of the Premier League, being able to handle the physical side of the game is a big deal for any new signings.
Diomande’s ability to win duels, combined with his physical skills, shows he is more than ready to handle top-flight football in England.
Anderson, United’s main midfield target, also stands out in this area. He leads the Premier League with 223 duels won so far in 2025/26.
Everton’s James Tarkowski comes next with 177. For United, Patrick Dorgu leads their players with 140 duels won this season.
Ineos seem focused on adding players who can raise the team’s overall physical presence, and few fit that description better right now than Anderson and Diomande.
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