Revealed: The reason why Real Madrid have joined the race for Yan Diomande

Updated: 25 Jul 2026 10:10 BST |
5 min read

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Real Madrid have entered the race to sign RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande after receiving the blessing of Jose Mourinho, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Athletic broke the news on Friday that La Liga giants Real have opened formal talks with Leipzig over a move for Diomande.

While The Athletic have made no mention of a bid, transfer reporter Romano claims Real have offered Leipzig €100million (£85.4m) for Diomande.

And Romano understands the bid – which he claims has been rejected by Bundesliga side Leipzig – came about after Real boss Mourinho approved the proposal.

In a post on X, Romano says the Portuguese has urged Real officials to sign Diomande as he looks to inject more pace into his side ahead of the new season.

Mourinho is gearing up for his second spell in charge of Los Blancos after replacing Alvaro Arbeloa at the Bernabeu in June.

The 63-year-old, who left Benfica after Real triggered a release clause in his contract, managed the Spanish giants between 2010 and 2013.

Mourinho’s Real have so far signed Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries and Bernardo Silva ahead of the 2026-27 La Liga season.

The Athletic understands the 15-time European champions are also working on a deal to sign Spain captain Rodri from Manchester City.

Diomande is also wanted by Liverpool and PSG

Diomande is one of the most sought-after players in world football following a stunning 2025-26 season with German outfit Leipzig.

The Ivory Coast winger was named the Bundesliga’s Rookie of the Season after scoring 12 goals in 33 league games for Leipzig last term.

Diomande also caught the eye for Ivory Coast at this summer’s World Cup, recording an assist in the 2-0 group-stage win over Curacao.

The Athletic reported in June that Liverpool had expressed a willingness to sign Diomande for a package worth up to €100m (£85.4m).

The same publication revealed the offer was turned down by Leipzig, who will only consider a sale if they receive a figure closer to €130m (£111m).

The Athletic reported 10 days later (28 June) that Diomande made Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain his preferred destination this summer.

However, various sources understand Luis Enrique’s side are yet to agree a fee with Leipzig, paving the way for Real to enter negotiations.

Romano also understands Premier League duo Arsenal and Manchester City have made enquiries into the situation regarding Diomande.

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