"Demba Ba" Most Expensive Deal in Real Madrid's History

Madrid (AFP) – Real Madrid, the runners-up in the Spanish league, signed Ivorian winger Yankuba Diomande from German club RB Leipzig on Thursday in a club-record deal worth $161 million plus add-ons, according to local media.

In a statement, Real Madrid said an agreement had been reached with Leipzig for Diomande, “who is linked to our club for the next seven seasons, until June 30, 2033.”

The 19-year-old Diomande had a standout season with Leipzig, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists in the league, helping the German side finish third and qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Diomande joined Leipzig from Spanish club Leganes last year and also represented the Ivory Coast national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where his side reached the round of 32.