Former UPSL National Finals MVP Yan Diomande Completes $23 Million Transfer to RB Leipzig
Red Bull Leipzig have officially completed the signing of rising star Yan Diomande from La Liga side CD Leganés for a reported fee of $23 million, marking the biggest transfer so far for RB Leipzig this window and the biggest transfer fee ever paid for a former UPSL player.
The 18-year-old winger joins a club renowned for developing young talent and competing at the highest levels of European football, including regular appearances in the UEFA Champions League. Diomande has signed a long-term deal with Leipzig and will join the squad in preseason training ahead of the new campaign.
Diomande spoke after sealing his transfer to the two-time German Cup champions.
“It’s a great honor for me to be able to play for such a fantastic club. There are plenty of examples that show RB Leipzig is the perfect place for young players to develop at a high level. I can’t wait to meet my teammates and the entire staff, and to be out on the pitch soon.”
RB Leipzig Sporting Director Rouven Schröder spoke highly of the former UPSL Florida Premier Division player, “Yan is a highly talented player with excellent technique, vision, and composure on the ball. He fits perfectly into our playing style and philosophy.” Able to play both outside back and outside midfield, Diomande is expected to bolster Leipzig’s depth and bring an extra layer of dynamism to Head Coach Marco Rose’s high-energy system.
In his debut season at CD Leganés, Diomande made a strong impression, featuring in just 10 matches across all competitions. He played a key role in helping the club remain competitive in a tough La Liga campaign, drawing praise for his mature play and tactical intelligence.
Just two years ago, Diomande was playing semi-professional soccer in the UPSL Premier Division. In Spring 2023, he featured in every regular season match for AS Frenzi. His dominant displays culminated in Frenzi winning the National Finals, as well as Yan being given the distinction of being named Best Player of the Tournament. After his performances in the UPSL caught the attention of scouts, within months he was on a plane to Europe to pursue his dream professionally.
His journey from grassroots soccer to European stardom is a testament to the increasing quality and visibility of the UPSL Premier Division. His story has also led to an international call-up to the Ivory Coast U23 national team, further showcasing his remarkable progress.
To stay up to date on more top players emerging from the UPSL Premier Division, visit www.upsl.com. If your team is ready to compete this Fall and write the next chapter in UPSL history, visit www.upslregistration.com/application/team.
About the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL)
Founded in 2011, the United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) serves as the unofficial fourth tier of the U.S. Soccer pyramid. With over 800 teams competing across its Premier, Division 1, A-League, Academy, and Women’s divisions, the UPSL is the largest Semi-Pro Pro League in North America. A National Affiliate member of the U.S. Soccer Federation (USSF), the UPSL is made up of independently owned and operated clubs. Through its USSF affiliation, UPSL teams are eligible to compete in the U.S. Open Cup Qualifying Rounds.
For more information, visit www.upsl.com or follow @upslsoccer on Facebook, Instagram, and X. General Inquiries: [email protected] – Media Inquiries: [email protected]