Sources have informed ESPN that Real Madrid is on the verge of finalizing a deal to acquire Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig within the next few hours.
The 19-year-old winger has emerged as one of football’s most promising talents after a standout season in the Bundesliga, where he scored 12 goals and provided eight assists. He also made a significant impact for Ivory Coast during the World Cup.
According to the sources, the transfer to Madrid is expected to be finalized between Monday and Tuesday, with the total deal estimated at €135 million ($153.8M), including performance-related variables, and a base fee ranging from €115M ($131M) to €120M ($136.7M).
If the add-ons are met, Diomande’s transfer would set a new record for Madrid, surpassing the transfers of Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund and Eden Hazard from Chelsea.
This move reflects Diomande’s rapid ascent in football, having started at DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida, just two years ago.
Diomande joined Spanish club Leganés in January 2025, initially playing for their reserve team before impressing enough to secure a transfer to Leipzig six months later.
During his time at Leipzig, he became one of the standout players of the Bundesliga, helping the team finish third.
At the World Cup, he generated eleven chances in four matches for Ivory Coast before their exit in the round of 32 against Norway.
Paris Saint-Germain was previously heavily linked with signing Diomande before Real Madrid entered the fray.
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Additionally, Madrid appears to be optimistic about securing a deal for Manchester City midfielder Rodri, according to ESPN’s sources.
Last week, it was reported that Madrid was reconsidering a potential move for Spain’s World Cup-winning captain after having previously raised concerns regarding his injury history.
Rodri’s impressive performances at the recent World Cup have altered opinions among Madrid’s top executives.
A source from Madrid mentioned that they expect City to seek a replacement before allowing the midfielder, who has one year remaining on his contract, to leave.
Real Madrid has also made several signings this summer, including Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, Bernardo Silva, and Denzel Dumfries, but it is reported that further departures may be necessary to bolster new coach José Mourinho’s squad.