Spanish giants Real Madrid are reportedly on the verge of signing highly-rated Ghanaian midfielder Latif Issman from UD Logroñés to bolster their reserve side, Real Madrid Castilla, ahead of the 2027/28 season.

According to ESPN journalist Rodra, negotiations between Real Madrid and the Spanish lower-tier club have reached an advanced stage, with the 19-year-old expected to become Castilla’s first signing for next season if an agreement is finalised.

The talented midfielder has been on Real Madrid’s radar for more than a year after the club attempted to sign him during the previous summer transfer window. Although the move failed to materialise at the time, Los Blancos have maintained their interest and have now intensified efforts to complete the deal.

Issman is understood to have a release clause of €300,000 in his contract with UD Logroñés. While it remains unclear whether Real Madrid will trigger the clause or negotiate a lower transfer fee, discussions between the two clubs are said to be progressing positively.

The Ghanaian youngster has earned a reputation as one of the most promising midfielders in Spain’s lower divisions, impressing with his athleticism, ball-winning ability, composure in possession and capacity to cover large areas of the pitch.

Real Madrid view Issman as a player with significant long-term potential who could continue his development with Castilla before pushing for opportunities at senior level or becoming another valuable asset in the club’s transfer strategy.

In recent years, La Fábrica, Real Madrid’s famed academy, has become one of the club’s most important sources of revenue, producing players who have generated substantial transfer income. Last summer alone, the Spanish giants reportedly earned more than €200 million through the sales of academy graduates.

The club has continued to invest heavily in emerging talent, with youngsters such as Sergio Martínez, Oscar Naasei and Rayan Zinebi joining the Castilla setup as part of a long-term strategy to develop elite prospects.

Issman’s potential arrival would further reinforce that approach, with Real Madrid identifying the Ghanaian as one of the brightest young midfielders capable of flourishing within the club’s renowned development system.

Should the deal be completed, it would represent a major milestone in the teenager’s career and offer him the opportunity to continue his development at one of the world’s biggest football clubs while enhancing Ghana’s growing presence in elite European football.