RB Leipzig have told Real Madrid and Europe’s leading clubs they will only sell highly rated forward Yan Diomande if his €130m release clause is paid in full, placing a firm block on any attempt to negotiate a lower fee this summer.
Sporting director Marcel Schafer underlined the Bundesliga club’s stance on Wednesday, insisting the 19-year-old Ivory Coast international remains central to Leipzig’s plans for next season and beyond.
“We intend for Yan Diomande to play for Leipzig next season,” Schafer said, adding that the release clause in the striker’s contract – which runs until 2030 – is set at €130m for any club looking to sign him.
His comments come as Real Madrid prepare a formal offer understood to be worth €120m, having made Diomande their leading attacking target in the current transfer window as they look to strengthen their forward line with one of Europe’s most sought-after young talents.
Madrid, who have monitored Diomande’s progress closely, now face the decision of whether to bridge the €10m gap between their planned bid and Leipzig’s non-negotiable figure, or turn to alternative options in the market.
Demichelis leaves door slightly ajar
While Leipzig’s hierarchy has taken a hard line in public, new head coach Martin Demichelis struck a more nuanced tone when asked about Diomande’s future after the German side’s latest pre-season friendly on Saturday.
“He is still a Leipzig player, but in football, everything is possible,” the Argentine said, signalling that, despite the club’s stance, he recognises the unpredictability of the transfer market.
Demichelis’s remark suggests Leipzig are braced for further developments, even as they insist that any departure would only happen if the full release clause is activated.
Rising star in European football
Diomande’s growing reputation dates back to his time at Spanish club Leganes, where his rapid emergence turned him into one of the most talked-about young forwards in European football.
His performances there drew interest from several major clubs, but no approach has yet matched the current level of attention from Real Madrid, who have now placed him at the top of their shortlist this summer.
Still only 19, Diomande is viewed across the continent as a long-term investment capable of leading the line at the highest level, which has contributed to Leipzig’s determination to protect their asset with a premium price tag.
Liverpool and PSG monitoring situation
Interest in Diomande is not limited to the Spanish champions. Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also closely tracking the situation, aware that any movement from Real Madrid could trigger a wider scramble for his signature.
However, Leipzig’s response has been identical for all suitors: there will be no negotiations, discounts or add-on-heavy structures. Clubs must either meet the €130m clause in full or walk away.
Reports suggest this rigid stance could yet derail Madrid’s push for the striker, with the €10m shortfall between their anticipated proposal and the release clause seen as a potential stumbling block.
As the transfer window progresses, the Spanish giants now face a clear choice: submit to Leipzig’s demands for the full €130m, or abandon their pursuit of Diomande and turn their attention to other attacking targets.
