Liverpool ready to battle Real Madrid for £51 million teenage defender – report

As has been well-established by now, Real Madrid plan on going after the signing of Lille defender Leny Yoro in the summer transfer window.

The 18-year-old centre-half has been one of the breakout stars of the season in Ligue 1 and has put several top clubs across Europe on high alert.

The interest from Real Madrid and PSG has been well-known for some time now, but it appears that new suitors have joined the race for Yoro.

Liverpool ready to fight

Indeed, as per MARCA (h/t 90 Min), Liverpool are ready to battle with Real Madrid in the race to sign Leny Yoro from Lille.

The Reds are seeking defensive reinforcements in the summer and have set their sights on the 18-year-old French prodigy, who is likely to cost around £51 million as per the report.

It is also mentioned that Chelsea, too, are in the race to sign Yoro, spicing things up further in the transfer race for the teenage prodigy.

Man in demand. (Photo by SEBASTIEN SALOM-GOMIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Despite being just 18 years old, Yoro has become a mainstay in defence for Lille. He has featured in 35 matches in all competitions even scoring three goals in the process.

With Real Madrid’s lack of depth at centre-back getting exposed this season, it has been identified as a key area to reinforce in the summer with Yoro being the preferred option.

Yoro prefers Real Madrid

Despite the increasing competition for his services, Real Madrid are likely to have an edge in the race for Yoro.

It is because the 18-year-old defensive prospect prefers the Santiago Bernabeu as his destination

Given that his contract expires in 2025, Real Madrid are unwilling to pay over the odds for Yoro, which could become an issue as Lille will demand a premium fee. So, only time will tell where the 18-year-old ends up come summer.