Ian Diamande returned to RB Leipzig and is undergoing performance tests on Monday, despite the fact that his future remains up in the air.
The 19-year-old Ivory Coast international has reportedly agreed a deal with him Real Madrid but there is no agreement between the clubs yet.
Sky Germany claim an initial bid of £85m was rejected by Leipzig, but a new offer of £98m has led to renewed talks. It is thought that if Madrid increase that to around £102m then Diamonde will be a Real Madrid player.
It would represent an excellent return for Leipzig, who bought the winger from Leganés 12 months ago by fulfilling his £17million release clause.
If he does move to the Santiago Bernabeu, Diamonde will become the most expensive African player in history, surpassing the £72m Arsenal paid for Nicolas Pepe in 2019.
Diamond is back in Germany and Madrid is watching
Although the deal continues to progress slowly, Diamond returned to Germany today to undergo an assessment following his efforts with Ivory Coast at the World Cup.
The teenager has made four appearances in the United States, Canada and Mexico, but is largely unimpressed the Ivorians lost to Norway at the 1/8 final stage.
Diamond’s potential move to Madrid could affect the future of current star Vinicius Jr., who was heavily linked with Arsenal in recent days.
David Ornstein of Athletic. revealed that the Premier League champions have inquired about a move for the Brazilian, although talks are said to be at an early stage.
The Brazilian has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu after the final year of his contract expires and Madrid’s move for Diamande, who like Vinicius is a left winger, suggests they are preparing for life without the two-time Champions League winner.
Arsenal are on the lookout for a new left-forward after the departure of Leandro Trossaro, with the Gunners missing an England cap Morgan Rodgers, who joined London rivals Chelsea from Aston Villa.