Real Madrid’s interest in signing Leny Yoro is no more a secret. Adding to the intrigue, a report from AS has affirmed that the record European champions are hoping to close his signing within the next two weeks.
The outlet suggests that Real Madrid’s executive, Juni Calafat, has been handling the negotiations and has considered two possible scenarios.
The preferred option was thought to be for Yoro to continue with Lille until 2025, allowing him to join Real Madrid on a free transfer.
However, this plan hinged on Nacho’s future. But now that he has opted for a lucrative offer from Saudi football, Real Madrid are left with no other option but to negotiate with Lille.
It is said that Lille are reportedly seeking a staggering €70 million for the young defender, a price that Real Madrid are reluctant to pay.
The club is instead offering a maximum of €40 million, with the possibility of additional bonuses. This has led to a bidding war, with Paris Saint-Germain also in the running, having made an initial offer of €60 million.
Manchester United and Liverpool have also shown interest, but Yoro seems to favour a move to Real Madrid.
While negotiations with Lille continue, Real Madrid are also exploring other options. According to reports, the club has inquired about Riccardo Calafiori, a 23-year-old defender from Bologna.
The Italian club values Calafiori at €40 million, with Juventus also showing interest. Real Madrid hope to use this as leverage to lower Lille’s asking price for Leny Yoro.
With the 2024/25 preseason set to begin, Real Madrid are eager to find a replacement for Nacho.
The current squad consists of Rafa Marin, who is expected to leave, Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, who are away on international duty, and David Alaba, who is recovering from a serious knee injury.