Spanish Football League: Real Madrid Acquires Diomande for €140 Million

Real Madrid have finalized the acquisition of Ivory Coast's Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, with the transfer valued at up to €140 million (£120 million), and the teenager has committed to a seven-year deal at the Santiago Bernabéu.

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The 19-year-old winger's signing makes him one of the most expensive acquisitions in Real Madrid's history, potentially surpassing the fee paid to Borussia Dortmund for England midfielder Jude Bellingham in 2023, as reported by BBC Sport on Thursday.

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Diomande had garnered attention from top European clubs following his exceptional performance with RB Leipzig, sparking a heated pursuit for his signature.

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Paris Saint-Germain were initially leading the charge, but ultimately ended their pursuit after their bid of €120 million (£102.5 million) was rejected by RB Leipzig.

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Liverpool had also expressed interest in the Ivorian winger, but their initial offer of £69 million was turned down as they sought a replacement for Mohamed Salah.

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Diomande becomes Real Madrid's sixth summer signing under head coach Jose Mourinho, joining a roster that includes Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella, and Carlos Espi.

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The teenager arrives in Spain on the heels of a remarkable 2025–26 season in Germany, where he earned the distinction of Bundesliga Young Player of the Season.

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Diomande's impressive stats include 12 league goals and eight assists, as well as 13 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.

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He also represented Ivory Coast at the FIFA World Cup, participating in all four matches as the Elephants advanced to the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Norway.

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Diomande's ascent has been swift, having left Ivory Coast for a US-based academy before joining Spanish side Leganés in 2025, and subsequently securing a move to RB Leipzig later that year.

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Renowned for his pace, dribbling prowess, and versatility, Diomande can play on either wing and is expected to bolster Real Madrid's attacking options ahead of the new season.

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The Spanish champions regard the teenager as one of Europe's most promising young talents, believing he has the potential to become a key player for the club in the years to come.