Revealed: Real Madrid tried to sign Ivorian attacker Yan Diomande in 2025

Real Madrid reportedly abandoned an attempt to sign Ivorian winger Yan Diomande in 2025 because they already had too many players in wide attacking positions, according to Spanish newspaper El Mundo.

The Spanish giants revived their interest after the 21-year-old impressed at RB Leipzig and stood out for Ivory Coast at the 2026 World Cup.

Madrid eventually secured his signature after intervening when Diomande was close to joining Paris Saint-Germain, with Rodrygo’s injury prompting the club to step up their pursuit.

Madrid beat PSG to Ivorian winger

According to the report, Real Madrid convinced Diomande to choose the Bernabéu instead of PSG, completing a transfer from Leipzig in a deal worth a guaranteed €125m, with a further €15m available in performance-related bonuses.

The move represents a significant investment by the Spanish club in the Ivory Coast international, who had previously been considered for a transfer while playing for Leganés in 2025.

Madrid opted against pursuing him at that time because of the number of wingers already available in their squad.

Diomande makes immediate impact

The Ivorian has already begun to justify the investment with an impressive performance against Sevilla, contributing a goal and an assist.

His early impact will raise expectations as he begins his spell at one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

After missing out on Diomande in 2025, Real Madrid have now secured his services as they look to strengthen their attacking options.