Operation 'Diomande' in Madrid – Los Blancos make their move for Ivorian

The spotlight of European football has been firmly fixed on Valdebebas since last night, as Real Madrid prepare a move that could become one of the biggest stories of the summer. Just when it seemed that Yan Diomande was on the verge of joining Paris Saint-Germain, the Spanish giants stormed into the race and completely changed the narrative, making a decisive push for RB Leipzig's teenage sensation.

Real Madrid have officially entered negotiations with Leipzig over the potential signing of the 19-year-old winger. Their opening bid of €90 million plus €10 million in add-ons was rejected, but it appears to be only the beginning of the talks. The important thing is that discussions are now underway.

Paris Saint-Germain remain interested in the Ivory Coast international, whose preferred destination had reportedly been the French champions. However, PSG have yet to submit an offer capable of convincing Leipzig to sell this summer. Real Madrid's arrival has dramatically altered the situation, creating genuine competition for one of Europe's most sought-after young talents.

The Athletic reported as early as June 24 that Madrid were searching for a new right winger in case Brahim Diaz leaves the club this summer. Although the Morocco international wants to remain in the Spanish capital, the club have continued to explore alternatives.

Diomande, who joined Leipzig from Spanish side Leganés, was also a target for Liverpool earlier this summer, with the Reds offering a package worth close to €100 million (€80 million guaranteed plus €20 million in bonuses).

Leipzig, however, are holding out for a fee closer to €130 million while simultaneously trying to convince Diomande to sign a new contract, despite his current deal running until the summer of 2030. Club officials remain hopeful that the youngster will stay beyond this transfer window.

"Our clear intention is for Jan Diomande to still be playing for Leipzig next season," sporting director Marcel Schafer said when asked about the winger's future.

Real Madrid have been one of the busiest clubs of the summer following José Mourinho's return as head coach. The club have already strengthened their squad with the arrivals of Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries and Marc Cucurella. Earlier on Friday, The Athletic also reported that Los Blancos are working on a deal to sign Rodri from Manchester City.

As previously mentioned, Madrid are exploring options on the right wing should Brahim Diaz depart. While the Moroccan remains eager to stay, both Mourinho and the club's hierarchy consider him an important member of the squad.

Diomande featured in all four of Ivory Coast's matches at the World Cup, helping his country reach the Round of 32 before they were eliminated by Norway. At club level, he enjoyed an outstanding Bundesliga campaign, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists in 33 appearances, missing just one league match because of the Africa Cup of Nations. Leipzig finished third in the Bundesliga and secured qualification for next season's UEFA Champions League.

If he leaves Germany this summer, Diomande will comfortably become the most expensive sale in Leipzig's history. He would surpass both the €76.5 million plus bonuses that Manchester United paid for Benjamin Sesko in 2025 and the €90 million Manchester City spent on Josko Gvardiol in 2023.

Diomande's letter to his late sister: "Since you died, I’m just blank. It’s like I’m not even human"

What makes his rise even more remarkable is that just 18 months ago, Diomande was playing for the DME Sports Academy in Florida. Today, after shining on the World Cup stage, he has become one of the hottest properties in world football.