Real Madrid are nearing a €120m (R2.26bn) agreement to sign 19-year-old Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig.
The Spanish club have made Diomande their priority target after his impressive performances for Ivory Coast at the World Cup in June and July. His displays highlighted the qualities that have persuaded Real Madrid to pursue the left-sided attacker as their latest Galactico.
Real Madrid, now managed by Jose Mourinho as he begins his second spell in charge at the club, are understood to have been working to complete the transfer. European champions PSG have also shown an interest in Diomande, but the teenager is on the brink of moving to the Spanish capital.
Diomande scored 12 goals and supplied eight assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances for RB Leipzig last season. His form has made him one of the most sought-after young players in Europe.
However, uncertainty remains over the representation rights attached to the player. RB Leipzig managing director Marcel Schafer has rejected suggestions that a dispute between Roc Nation and former Ivory Coast international Max Gradel could prevent the transfer from being completed.
Roc Nation, which is owned by Jay Z, and Gradel’s agency, Maxidel, are both involved in an unresolved disagreement over which organisation holds the rights to represent Diomande. Despite that issue, Schafer does not believe the dispute will derail the proposed move to Real Madrid.
Vinicius Junior future under scrutiny
Diomande’s expected arrival could have major consequences for the future of Vinicius Junior. The 26-year-old Brazil forward’s position at Real Madrid is the subject of intense speculation, with reports linking him with a move to Arsenal.
One possibility is that Vinicius Junior could leave if Diomande completes his long-awaited transfer to Real Madrid. Another theory is that the stories have come from the player’s camp as part of an attempt to secure improved terms with the Spanish club.
Vinicius Junior’s contract expires in mid-2027, and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is unwilling to allow such a valuable player to leave on a free transfer. A lucrative move to Arsenal remains possible, particularly with Diomande now close to joining Real Madrid.
In South Africa, attention has turned to the effect of Sebastian Pedersen’s arrival at Orlando Pirates and what it could mean for Evidence Makgopa. Oswin Appollis, meanwhile, appears likely to remain at the club despite reports that FC Porto have made an approach.
Khanyisa Mayo has joined permanently from CR Belouizdad for a reported fee of about R9.8m, following his previous loan spell. Orlando Pirates have also signed 27-year-old defensive midfielder Adolf Mtasingwa from Azam FC, while Langelihle Phili is expected to complete a move to the club shortly.
Orlando Pirates will play Durban City on Saturday, 8 August at 15:00. Mamelodi Sundowns face Polokwane later that day at 18:00, while Kaizer Chiefs host Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Sunday, 9 August at 18:00.
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