Talks between Real Madrid and RB Leipzig have entered their decisive phase. Insiders reveal that the Merengues are prepared to part with between €130 million and €140 million to secure the services of the 19-year-old Ivorian winger. If completed, this transfer would rank as the second most expensive in Bundesliga history, trailing only Ousmane Dembélé’s move from Borussia Dortmund to Barcelona (€148 million). Just weeks ago, figures as low as €120 million were being discussed.

Agreement nears, but formalities remain

While verbal agreements have reportedly been reached on key terms, a definitive green light is still pending. The Real Madrid board is expected to ratify the deal later today, provided no last-minute complications arise. Transfer expert Ben Jacobs has hinted at progress, though RB Leipzig‘s sporting director Marcel Schäfer cautioned that nothing is finalized yet.

Diomande’s medical complicates Madrid’s plans

Yan Diomande had joined RB Leipzig‘s pre-season camp in Saalfelden, Austria, after recovering from an infection. The Ivorian, who had initially claimed illness to delay his departure from Spain, was meant to undergo his medical in Madrid—had the transfer been completed sooner. However, prolonged negotiations between the two clubs thwarted those plans.

The situation sparked controversy when transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano declared the deal “done” over a week ago, drawing sharp criticism for premature announcements. Schäfer dismissed such claims, emphasizing that multiple factors must align before any deal is sealed.

Competing clubs bow out as Madrid secures the prize

Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich had all expressed strong interest in Diomande earlier, but Real Madrid now stands as the sole destination. The club’s determination appears unwavering, even as off-field disputes complicate the process.

Behind the scenes, a bitter dispute between Diomande’s former agency Maxidel Management and his new advisors at Roc Nation threatens to derail the transfer. Maxidel claims it retains transfer rights and is entitled to a share of the fee—a stance the FIFA may need to adjudicate if the deal goes through.

Diomande’s rise has been meteoric. After just 10 official matches with Leganés, RB Leipzig signed him for €20 million in summer 2025. The youngster repaid their faith with 13 goals and 10 assists in 36 appearances, cementing his status as one of Europe’s most coveted talents.

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