Barcelona investigated the possibility of signing Yan Diomande before the Ivory Coast winger moved to Real Madrid, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Speaking on DAZN just hours before the Clasico between the Spanish rivals, Romano said the Catalan club had examined Diomande’s profile while assessing one of the most highly regarded young talents of his generation. Barcelona ultimately reconsidered their position after being deterred by the financial demands of the proposed deal.

Diomande, who has won 17 caps for Ivory Coast and scored three international goals, had reportedly been monitored by Barcelona for some time. His potential and attacking qualities attracted the attention of the club’s decision-makers, but the asking price became a major obstacle and the Blaugrana did not take the negotiations further.

Real Madrid eventually secured the player in a deal announced at 140 million euros. The fee represents a significant investment in a young footballer and reflects the importance the club places on Diomande’s long-term development.

The winger has signed a contract with the Merengues running until June 2033, as part of a project designed to build around his qualities over the coming years.

That decision could give Diomande an unusual backdrop for his Clasico debut. He has been reported as being among Real Madrid’s starters for the fixture, which would give him the opportunity to face Barcelona the club that had also considered bringing him in.

The match will be Barcelona’s fixture for the 10th matchday of the Spanish championship, with Real Madrid providing the opposition.

The market for the game had been presented with Barcelona priced at 1.65 in one listing. More detailed prices quoted by the betting company 1xbet placed Barcelona at 1.62 to win, a draw at 5.75 and Real Madrid at 3.90.

For Diomande, the meeting would therefore carry an additional narrative beyond the rivalry between the two clubs. Barcelona’s interest was not enough to produce an agreement, while Real Madrid chose to make the financial commitment required to take the Ivory Coast international to the Santiago Bernabeu on a contract lasting until June 2033.