Four reasons why Real Madrid must sign Leny Yoro right away

Real Madrid have been eyeing 18-year-old Lille centre-back Leny Yoro for several months. However, the uncertainty surrounding his arrival, whether this summer or next, has stirred much debate.

The primary obstacle is financial; Lille are holding out for a big transfer fee for their prized asset. But with Yoro’s contract set to expire in 12 months, Real Madrid are hesitant to make a significant investment.

Despite this, there are compelling reasons for the club to secure the 18-year-old’s services this summer.

Here are four reasons why Florentino Perez and Jose Angel Sanchez must go all out for the French teenager in the current transfer window.

1. The injury crisis

One of the most pressing reasons for Real Madrid to act now is the club’s recent struggle with injuries. Last season, the team faced one of the most severe injury crises in its history.

Just 48 hours before the start of the La Liga season, Thibaut Courtois suffered an ACL rupture in training. The opening match against Athletic Club saw another blow as Eder Militao also tore his ACL.

The injury woes did not end there. David Alaba, another key defender, suffered a similar fate in mid-December, tearing his ACL and subsequently damaging his meniscus.

These injuries left the team vulnerable, forcing Carlo Ancelotti to rely heavily on Antonio Rudiger. The German took on an immense workload, as he became one of the most frequently played players throughout the campaign.

Given this context, bolstering the defence with a promising young talent like Yoro is not just a luxury but a necessity. His presence would provide much-needed depth and help mitigate the risks associated with potential injuries to key defenders.

2. Contractual Concerns

Waiting until next summer to sign Yoro for free could be a gamble that backfires. While his contract with Lille is set to expire in 12 months, this period could see significant changes.

Lille might succeed in convincing the player to renew his contract, potentially including a substantial release clause. Such a scenario would make it more challenging and costly for Real Madrid to secure his signature.

Moreover, Yoro is already on the radar of several top European clubs like Manchester United and PSG. If Real Madrid delay their move, they risk losing him to another team.

The competitive nature of the transfer market means that any delay could see another club convincing Yoro to join them, especially if they present a more immediate and attractive offer.

3. Age and Potential

Leny Yoro’s age and potential make him an ideal long-term investment for Real Madrid. At just 18 years old, he has the potential to develop into a world-class centre-back.

With over 15 years of football ahead of him, the Frenchman represents a strategic acquisition that could solidify the Merengues’ defence for the next decade or more.

The departure of former captain Nacho Fernandez has left a void in the defence. This exit makes the need for a new centre-back even more urgent.

Yoro, standing at 1.88 meters, offers the physical presence and defensive capabilities that Real Madrid need. His youth also means he can be moulded to fit the club’s playing style and ethos, ensuring continuity and stability in the defensive line.

4. Fixture overload next season

Real Madrid played 56 games in all competitions in the 2023/24 season. If they do not make it past the group stage in any of the cup competitions in 2024/25, they will still play 59 games. Making it to the finals in all will result in 70 games all season.

This requires squad death for the upcoming season. With David Alaba still not back from injury and likely to return in 2025, Real Madrid’s options at centre-back ahead of the new season are Rudiger and Militao, with Aurelien Tchouameni a makeshift alternative.

As such, signing Yoro this summer will be a massive boost for the team to face the upcoming season, where the team will travel across three continents from July to May, playing around 70 games.