Real Madrid generally gets what they want in the market. They’re moving mountains to sign Ivorian World Cup star Yan Diomandé.
Real Madrid land World Cup star Diomandé
19-year-old Ivorian winger Yan Diomandé is on the brink of a €120m (R2,26 billion) move from RB Leipzig to Real Madrid. The Spanish giants, now under the tutelage of Jose Mourinho, who starts his second stint in the capital, made Diomande their number one target. He starred for the Ivory Coast at the World Cup in June and July, showing flashes of the brilliance which convinced Los Blancos to make him their latest Galactico. European champions PSG also expressed interest in the talented left-sided attacker. He struck 12 goals and provided eight assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances last season.
RB Leipzig managing director Marcel Schäfer has denied that the ongoing battle between Roc Nation and former Ivory Coast international Max Gradel could derail the deal to take Diomandé to Madrid. There still remains ambiguity as to which of Roc Nation, owned by Jay Z, and Gradel’s agency, Maxidel, possesses rights to the player.
What does this all mean for Vini Jr and his Real Madrid future?
The future of 26-year-old Brazilian star Vinicius Junior is a matter of intense debate. If Diomandé makes his long-awaited move to Real Madrid, Vini could be on his way out. There are several reports suggesting he could be on his way to Arsenal, although another theory is that these rumours have originated out of the player’s camp in order to leverage an improved deal with Madrid. He’s out of contract in mid-2027, and club president Florentino Perez has no desire to lose him on a free transfer. A big-money switch to the Gunners is still on the cards, especially with Diomande virtually through the door.
Latest Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs transfer news
What does Pirates new boy Sebastian Pedersen’s arrival mean for Evidence Makgopa? One man who seems to be staying put is Oswin Appollis. This, despite rumours of an approach from FC Porto. Khanyisa Mayo has signed permanently from CR Belouizdad for a reported fee close to R9.8 million following a prior loan spell. Adolf Mtasingwa is a 27-year-old defensive midfielder signed from Azam FC. Langelihle Phili is also expected to join the club imminently.
MTN8 quarter-final weekend
Orlando Pirates meet Durban City on Saturday, 8 August at 15:00. Sundowns tackle Polokwane later that day at 18:00. Meanwhile, Chiefs face Golden Arrows at FNB Stadium on Sunday, 9 August at 18:00.
