Real Madrid have moved a step closer to signing Yan Diomande, reaching a verbal agreement with the RB Leipzig winger, according to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg. The deal, which would see Diomande join on a contract until at least 2031, could have seismic implications for Vinicius Jr’s future at the Bernabéu, handing Arsenal a potential opening in their pursuit of the Brazil star.
The 19-year-old Diomande has also verbally agreed terms with Paris Saint-Germain, but Madrid are now pushing to finalise a fee. Leipzig are holding out for more than €100m (£85m) after rejecting an £85.4m bid from the La Liga giants. The Ivory Coast international is also a target for Liverpool and Manchester City, among others.
“Real Madrid agree verbal deal for Yan Diomande, fuelling Arsenal hopes to sign Vinicius Jr.”
Vinicius, 26, has entered the final year of his contract with Madrid, fuelling speculation he could be sold this summer rather than risk losing him on a free transfer. Arsenal have been exploring a move for the winger, but new Real manager Jose Mourinho has made it clear he wants to keep the 22-goal forward, who helped Brazil reach the World Cup last-16. Mourinho told the club he is firmly against any Arsenal approach.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan have confirmed that transfer talks are underway for Tottenham defender Cristian Romero. The Argentina centre-back, 28, has yet to report for pre-season after helping his country into the World Cup final. Spurs could face a battle to keep the World Cup winner.
Elsewhere in the market, Arsenal are prepared to break the British transfer record to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, while Chelsea have rejected a third bid from Como for Trevoh Chalobah. Napoli are interested in Blues defender Benoit Badiashile, and Juventus have held talks over a move for Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes.
The Diomande saga could shape the remainder of the window. If Madrid land the teenager, it may force Vinicius out – but only if Mourinho’s resistance can be overcome. Arsenal will be watching closely.