"If Real Madrid are coming, it’s difficult" – Marcel Schäfer explains why RB Leipzig had to sell Yan Diomande

When the prospect of Real Madrid showing interest in RB Leipzig's 19-year-old winger Yan Diomande emerged during the 2025/26 Bundesliga season, the German club maintained their stance that they had no intention of selling him. However, as the summer transfer window progressed, it became increasingly clear that a move to Real Madrid was becoming more likely, culminating in a record-breaking deal for the young international.

At a press conference in Leipzig, RB Leipzig's sporting director Marcel Schäfer shed light on the decision to part ways with Diomande after just one season at the club. The primary reason, unsurprisingly, was the significant financial offer from Real Madrid. "This was a must for us economically," Schäfer emphasized, acknowledging that RB Leipzig needed to generate transfer revenues every summer.

For Schäfer, the sale of Diomande for a record-breaking fee of €125 million (with potential bonuses pushing the total beyond €140 million) represented an outstanding story. The club's willingness to invest in Diomande's potential, despite his limited La Liga experience, demonstrated their confidence in the young player's future. "It was a good example that you don't invest in what a player has already shown, but in the potential," Schäfer explained.

Despite expressing a desire to retain Diomande for at least two years, Schäfer also recognized the emotional aspect for the player. He noted that if Real Madrid were to make a move, it could be difficult for Diomande, considering the player's aspirations. This perspective balanced the sporting and economic considerations, ultimately leading to one of RB Leipzig's most successful transfer deals.