Real Madrid see former academy defender as Plan B for top transfer target

Real Madrid have been on the lookout for a new defender this summer and have identified Leny Yoro as their priority target.

The LOSC Lille wonderkid is also eager to join the Merengues and is said to have an agreement with the club over a move this summer.

But talks between the two clubs are proving to be difficult as Lille are seeking a huge sum for the 18-year-old which Real Madrid are unwilling to meet owing to the fact that his contract expires in 2025.

Real Madrid are patient and confident about the entire situation, but with Lille accepting Manchester United’s €50 million bid, the possibility of missing out on Yoro exists.

Mario Gila the Plan B

In case Real Madrid end up missing out on the signing of Leny Yoro, they plan on turning to a familiar face in the form of Mario Gila, reports SPORT.

Gila, 23, joined the Real Madrid youth setup from RCD Espanyol in 2018 and went on to become a mainstay for the Castilla team, making more than 70 appearances.

The Merengues sold the 23-year-old centre-back to Lazio during the summer of 2022, although they did retain 50% of the defender’s rights.

Gila has steadily improved during his time in Italy, so much so that clubs like Inter Milan, Juventus, and Bayer Leverkusen.

And, Real Madrid have not lost sight of their former academy man who has a contract with Lazio until the summer of 2027.

Having bid goodbye to Nacho Fernandez and the sold Rafa Marin as well, the Spanish and European champions must reinforce their defence this summer.

Yoro remains the absolute priority in that regard but if circumstances change and the 18-year-old does not join, Gila is seen as the backup plan.