Premier League clubs Liverpool and Manchester United could reportedly face a major blow in pursuit of Lille defender Leny Yoro.
The youngster is one of the best defenders in the world among his age group and some of Europe’s elite teams are keeping an eye on him.
His fine performances for the Ligue 1 club have caught the attention of Premier League and La Liga clubs, along with French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
In an exclusive conversation with Rousing The Kop, journalist Graeme Bailey has revealed that La Liga giants Real Madrid have the edge over Premier League clubs in the race to sign Yoro.
“In terms of Yoro, from what I’m told the English clubs who are interested in him, which is a lot – Chelsea, United, Liverpool – they all love him. But they think he wants to go to Real Madrid,” says the journalist.
“So, that’s the issue with him. I’m not saying he would turn down any of these clubs, but from what I’m told his preference is Madrid.
“We know they might be in the market for one, so we’ll see how that plays out.
“I think if he’s available Liverpool would be in the market for him because he’s a top, top prospect, he really is, he’s only 18. But he wouldn’t be cheap. I’m not sure he’s the top one on Liverpool’s list just because they don’t think he’s attainable at this point.”
Liverpool have identified Yoro as a potential successor to Virgil Van Dijk in their defense.
Meanwhile, Man United are chasing him as well to replace Raphael Varane at the club following his exit this summer.
When Real Madrid enter the race to sign a player, it is difficult to beat them most of the times.
They have built a reputation around the world when it comes to attracting the best young talents in football.
Los Blancos have managed to sign Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe could follow soon.
Liverpool need to find other solution in the market
Liverpool would regret missing out on such a top talent if Real Madrid actually go through with the transfer.
The Red Devils have identified Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite as a potential signing, which leaves Liverpool with no such option at the moment.
The Merseyside club need a new defensive signing to provide them depth and quality at the back.