RB Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer has denied reports that they are close to signing Real Madrid winger Yan Diomandé, despite his high praise.Despite his high praise, no deal has been finalised for Real Madrid winger Yan Diomandé, RB Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer has denied reports that they are close to signing him.
RB Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer has strongly reacted to reports regarding the future of the Ivory Coast international, stating that Yan Diomandé is not yet close to leaving the Bundesliga club. The 19-year-old has been heavily touted by a number of European giants, including Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool, but Leipzig have stated that talks are not in their final stages.
After PSG pulled out of the race, Real Madrid have reportedly become the frontrunners for Diomandé’s signature. Even the Spanish giants were reportedly close to finalising a deal, despite Leipzig turning down a €100m bid. But Schäfer has now refuted those claims, and asked fans to be wary of the latest transfer reports.
Leipzig Reject Claims of Completed Deal
Speaking to Sky Germany, Schäfer commented on the speculation surrounding Diomandé’s move to Real Madrid. The Leipzig sporting director was especially harsh on reports that the deal was nearing completion.
“It’s clear that some so-called transfer experts reported a few days ago that the deal was done or gave it the ‘here we go,’” Schäfer said. That’s not the case, we’re not at that point yet.”
His remarks clearly suggest Real Madrid have work to do if they’re looking to sign him. Talks may begin in the next few days, but Leipzig have yet to confirm a deal with the Spanish side.
Diomandé Remains Under Contract
Diomandé has four years left on his contract with Leipzig, which puts them in a strong position to negotiate with him. His production has been significantly improved in the 2025/26 season, as the teenager has scored 13 goals and assisted nine times in 36 matches for all competitions.
He also contributed to Leipzig’s third place finish in the Bundesliga. Diomandé was also very good at taking on defenders, with 118 successful dribbles and 104 take-on ending carries in the league campaign.
The figures have naturally drawn the interest of some of the continent’s top clubs, but Leipzig are not under any immediate pressure to sell.
Agent Change Not Affecting Transfer Talks
Diomandé recently switched agencies and now represents Roc Nation, which also represents Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior. The switch had sparked doubts about the impact it might have on negotiations.
But that wasn’t the case for Schäfer, who ruled that out and confirmed that Leipzig’s current point of contact is Roc Nation.
From my point of view, it’s no way, no how.” I don’t know that,” Schäfer said when asked if that would impact a potential move.
“There’s been a change of agents, our point of contact is now Roc Nation, I don’t think it would fall through because of that, if it even comes to a transfer in the first place, I think Yan made it very clear.
Real Madrid Still in the Race
However, Real Madrid are still very much interested in Diomandé, despite Leipzig’s recent comments. The Spanish giants are thought to be considering the young winger as a long-term signing for the club, but any deal will require further talks with Leipzig.
The situation is still unresolved at this time. While Diomandé remains a Leipzig player, Schäfer’s remarks suggest that any rumours of his imminent move to Madrid have been premature. However, the teenager’s future is still one of the big stories to watch as the summer transfer window remains open.
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