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Yan Diomande was absent from RB Leipzig's matchday roster for Saturday's preseason friendly against Verl, though whether this development bodes well for Real Madrid remains a matter of debate.
Reports surrounding Madrid's pursuit of Diomande have varied considerably. While some sources claim a deal between the two clubs has already been finalized, others maintain that negotiations are still in progress—with Diomande's continued participation in Leipzig training sessions suggesting the latter may be true.
That same uncertainty carried into Saturday when Diomande was omitted from Leipzig's squad for the Verl fixture, which was initially interpreted as a precautionary step to prevent any injury that could derail a potential transfer.
Leipzig, however, moved to clear the air by clarifying that Diomande's absence was simply the result of illness.
Madrid will take some comfort in seeing Diomande kept away from the match, but Los Blancos still face a genuine challenge in securing the signature of the talented young winger.
What's the Latest on Real Madrid's Bid for Diomande?
Ahead of Saturday's match, Florian Plettenberg reported that Leipzig had yet to respond to Madrid's most recent offer for Diomande.
The Bundesliga club had wanted Diomande to join them for their preseason tour, but the player made it clear he had no intention of doing so. Unsurprisingly, his eventual absence due to illness raised a host of questions.
Illness notwithstanding, Diomande is believed to be doing everything in his power to push through a move to Madrid. He is reportedly said to have "mentally checked out" of Leipzig and has made little attempt to conceal his ambition to join the Bernabéu club.
Leipzig have been holding firm on a asking price of €130 million ($150 million), but Madrid have yet to match that figure. An initial bid of €100 million was rejected, and a follow-up offer is understood to have topped out at €120 million.
There is a general expectation that a deal will eventually be struck, though the passing of Saturday's informal deadline has added further urgency to proceedings.
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Madrid are working diligently to strengthen new manager José Mourinho's squad. Having already secured the arrivals of Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, Bernardo Silva, Denzel Dumfries and Carlos Espí, the club are now turning their attention to Diomande and Manchester City midfielder Rodri.
The coming weeks promise to be eventful for Madrid who, in addition to potential new signings, are bracing for a number of high-profile exits. Gonzalo García is expected to join former manager Álvaro Arbeloa at Fulham, while the most pressing question undoubtedly centers on Vinícius Júnior's contract situation and Arsenal's reported interest in the Brazilian star.