Barcelona explored the possibility of signing Yan Diomande at the beginning of the summer transfer window but ultimately considered the winger too expensive, according to a report relaying Fabrizio Romano’s information.
The Ivorian eventually became Real Madrid’s club record signing, while the Catalans pursued a different attacking option in Karim Adeyemi.
The contrasting transfer decisions offer an insight into how Barcelona and Real Madrid approached their summer recruitment.
While Diomande’s price proved prohibitive for Barça, Adeyemi emerged as a more attainable opportunity after Borussia Dortmund offered the German winger to Madrid, who chose not to pursue the deal.
Both players ultimately found their preferred destinations, with Adeyemi joining Barcelona to work under Hansi Flick.
Real Madrid passed on Adeyemi before Barcelona moved
Adeyemi’s transfer situation was influenced by his contract position at Borussia Dortmund.
Barcelona inquired about the possibility of signing Yan Diomande. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
With his deal due to expire in 2027, the winger was entering the final year of his contract and was unwilling to renew. He wanted to join Barcelona, giving the Catalans a significant advantage in negotiations.
Jorge Mendes, Adeyemi’s agent, presented the opportunity to Barcelona as the club looked to reinforce its attacking options.
Dortmund had to weigh the financial benefit of selling him against the risk of losing him for nothing when his contract expired.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, decided against advancing with the opportunity because Adeyemi was not considered the right fit for the profile the club wanted.
That decision left Barcelona better placed to negotiate for a player who had made his preference clear.
Barcelona secured Adeyemi on favourable terms
Barcelona ended up signing Adeyemi instead. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)
Barcelona initially offered €20 million for Adeyemi, but Dortmund rejected that proposal.
The clubs eventually reached an agreement worth €22 million upfront plus €7 million in potential add-ons, with the transfer officially confirmed in July. Adeyemi signed a contract with Barcelona until 2031.
The fee was made more attractive by the winger’s contract situation and his desire to leave.
Adeyemi also brings versatility, having demonstrated that he can operate on either wing or through the middle. His pace gives Flick another option in attack as Barcelona look to build depth around their existing forward line.
As for Diomande, Real Madrid ended up paying a whopping €125 million base fee, plus up to €15 million in potential add-ons.