Real Madrid seals deal for Yan Diomande after PSG withdrawal

Real Madrid has reportedly won the race for RB Leipzig’s sought-after winger, Yan Diomande, following Paris Saint-Germain's withdrawal from the bidding war. The Ivorian international, who recently completed a noteworthy season in the Bundesliga and an impressive World Cup campaign, is expected to finalize his move to the Spanish capital.

The 19-year-old had previously been linked with a transfer to Liverpool at the beginning of the window. However, his representatives indicated that he was prioritizing a switch to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite this, Real Madrid has moved ahead as PSG stepped back, with the transfer fee expected to be “well in excess” of €100m (£85m).

This development comes just days after Leipzig rejected Madrid’s initial offer of €90m plus €10m in add-ons. Reports suggest that Diomande has already agreed on personal terms with Real Madrid and is anticipated to travel to Spain for a medical.

The situation represents a setback for PSG, who had initially been the favorites to sign Diomande. Various sources indicated that PSG was the player’s preferred destination following his departure from Germany. However, a failure to agree on a transfer fee led PSG to announce on Sunday that they would not compromise their financial principles. The statement from the club read: “Paris Saint-Germain has this evening formally withdrawn its interest in and bids for Yan Diomande. PSG will not break its principles of rational financial management and squad balance.”

In the meantime, Liverpool is now focusing its search for wingers on PSG’s Bradley Barcola after losing interest in Diomande.