Yan Diomande has reported back to RB Leipzig‘s training camp following his break after the World Cup as the Bundesliga club edges closer to a record-breaking transfer agreement with Real Madrid.
The Ivory Coast international underwent performance testing on Monday alongside other international stars returning to the squad. His presence at the facility comes amid advanced negotiations with the Spanish giants, who are pushing to complete the signing of the 19-year-old centre-back this week.
Guaranteed fee the priority
Real Madrid have submitted a second bid valued at €115 million, yet Leipzig are demanding a higher guaranteed sum rather than accepting performance-related add-ons, according to Sky Sports. A total package of €120 million is now considered a realistic valuation for the defender, who joined the German club just last summer.
Discussions continue regarding payment structures and sell-on clauses. CD Leganés are contractually guaranteed to receive between five and eight per cent of any transfer fee following Diomande’s €20 million move from Spain to Germany twelve months ago.
Conflicting reports on deal status
Both Sky Sports and transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano identify Real Madrid as the clear favourites to sign the teenager. However, the sources differ on how close the deal is to completion.
While Sky reports that negotiations are ongoing over financial details and contractual terms, Romano has already declared “Here We Go” on the transfer, suggesting an agreement on the total sum and conditions has been reached. Breakthrough talks between the clubs occurred on Sunday, with further meetings expected imminently.
Record transfer imminent
The prospective deal would eclipse Leipzig’s current record sale of €90 million, received from Manchester City for Josko Gvardiol. The club have already rejected multiple offers exceeding €100 million for Diomande this window, demonstrating their resolve to maximise the defender’s value following his rapid development.
Should the transfer proceed at the mooted €120 million figure, it would represent a remarkable six-fold increase on the fee Leipzig paid to secure his services from Leganés just one year ago.