RB Leipzig trigger Diomande release clause

Leganes have announced the departure of 18-year-old Ivorian attacker Yan Diomande to RB Leipzig after the German club, who have also officially announced his signing, triggered the player's release clause.

"Given the multiple expressions of interest shown in the player, Leganes initially insisted on the release clause. It was only when the German club were in a position to pay the amount to the Royal Spanish Football Federation that an agreement was reached, allowing them to retain a percentage of any future loan or sale of the player. The club wishes him the best of luck in his future, both personally and professionally," Leganes clarified in a statement regarding the left winger.

Diomande arrived at the club at the end of 2024 after impressing in US youth football and as an international for his country's youth teams. He made his professional debut on 29 March in a match at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Madrid. From that moment on, he played nine more matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist.

"I am very happy that my future is in Leipzig. It is a great honour for me to be able to play for such a fantastic club. There are many examples that show that it is the perfect place for young players to develop to the highest level. The club wants to play fast, attacking football, which fits my style perfectly. I am looking forward to meeting my team-mates and all the coaching staff, and to being on the pitch with them soon," said Diomande in statements to his new club.

"We have signed an exceptional young talent and are very happy that he sees his future in Leipzig. He is a left winger with exceptional pace, powerful dribbling, great athleticism and a great eye for goal. In addition, he never loses the ball and plays with a great team spirit. With these qualities, he fits perfectly into the type of football we want to play this season. While we are very much looking forward to working with him, we also need to give Yan the time and space he needs to adapt, both in Leipzig and in the Bundesliga," said Marcel Schafer, sporting director of the German club.