Real Madrid has struck a club-record deal with RB Leipzig for Yan Diomande, agreeing to a fee of €135m (£115.7m). The 19-year-old Ivorian attacker, who starred at the World Cup, is expected to sign a contract until 2031. This transfer makes Diomande the most expensive African player in history, surpassing Nicolas Pépé's £72m move to Arsenal in 2019.
The deal, which includes an initial €125m plus €10m in add-ons, was finalised on Wednesday afternoon after weeks of negotiations. This figure reportedly eclipses the fee paid for Jude Bellingham in 2023, which was believed to be up to €134m including add-ons.
Meanwhile, Real Madrid is also confident of retaining Vinícius Júnior. The Brazilian forward and his representatives held talks with club officials on Wednesday regarding a contract extension. Arsenal is reportedly prepared to pay over £100m for the 26-year-old, but Vinícius is understood to be considering an improved offer from Madrid following what sources described as positive discussions.