Real Madrid beat transfer rivals to sign Ghanaian wonderkid Latif Issman ahead of 2027 move

Real Madrid have secured the signature of Ghanaian midfielder Latif Issman, beating several rival clubs to the highly rated youngster as they continue investing in emerging talent for the future.

The Spanish giants have reportedly reached a final agreement to sign the 19-year-old from SD Logroñés, with the transfer scheduled for the summer of 2027.

According to French publication Foot Mercato, citing Spanish newspaper Marca, negotiations between the parties have concluded successfully after Real Madrid monitored the midfielder’s development for several months.

The agreement makes Issman the first player earmarked for Real Madrid’s 2027 summer recruitment plans, underlining the club’s determination to strengthen their long-term project with promising young footballers.

Real Madrid’s scouting department and sporting management have followed the Ghanaian closely, with their interest intensifying in recent weeks before they eventually secured his services ahead of competing clubs.

Issman is expected to begin his career in the Spanish capital with Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s reserve team, where he will have the opportunity to develop within their football structure before potentially earning promotion to the senior side.

The approach reflects Real Madrid’s established strategy of identifying talented prospects early and gradually preparing them for the demands of first-team football.

Ghanaian midfielder impresses with Logroñés

Born on November 1, 2006, Issman developed through the youth ranks of SD Logroñés after beginning his football education at the Spanish club’s academy.

His technical ability, versatility and capacity to operate in different midfield roles have helped him attract attention, with his progress earning him opportunities in the senior team.

The Ghanaian has gradually become part of coach Unai Mendia’s plans this season, making 10 league appearances, including eight starts.

He has accumulated 619 minutes of playing time and registered one assist, providing further evidence of his growing influence within the squad.

Real Madrid’s recruitment team reportedly believe his technical and physical attributes make him a promising addition to their midfield options.

The club’s interest also aligns with their broader recruitment philosophy of securing emerging talents before their market value increases significantly.

Despite having his next destination settled, Issman remains focused on completing his assignment with Logroñés.

The midfielder is determined to help the club secure promotion to the Spanish second division before embarking on the next chapter of his career at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Florentino Pérez delivers on exclusive shirt promise

Meanwhile, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has begun fulfilling another commitment from his 2026 re-election campaign, with the club initiating arrangements to distribute exclusive commemorative shirts to members.

Before securing another term in June 2026, Pérez promised to provide every registered club member with a special official shirt annually, irrespective of age.

Real Madrid have now started contacting members with instructions on how to claim the complimentary gift, which will carry the name ‘La Socia’.

The shirt will not be available for public purchase, making it an exclusive item reserved for registered members. Each season will also feature a different design, giving members a distinctive annual memento of their association with the club.

Members have until December 30, 2026, to submit their requests through the club’s online members’ service office.

They must indicate whether they require an adult or children’s version and provide their preferred size, subject to availability.

The club has also advised members to update their personal information, including delivery addresses, telephone numbers and email contacts, to avoid complications during distribution.

Those who fail to provide the necessary specifications risk receiving shirts based on available stock rather than their preferred selections.

The initiative is separate from Real Madrid’s planned 125th-anniversary shirt, which Adidas is designing ahead of the club’s official anniversary on March 6, 2027.

The anniversary edition is expected to go on sale early next year as the Spanish giants prepare to celebrate their history while continuing to build for the future.

On the pitch, Real Madrid remain involved in the La Liga title race, sitting second with 30 points after 12 matches, three behind leaders Barcelona.