Real Madrid uninterested in €30m-rated Serie A defender, only want 18-year-old gem | OneFootball

Earlier today, reports emerged claiming that Real Madrid have set their sights on Bologna and Italy centre-back Riccardo Calafiori, as a possible alternative for Leny Yoro.

With Nacho Fernandez leaving and Rafa Marin also on his way out, Real Madrid need a new central defender and Yoro is their primary target. But talks with his club Lille have not progressed as per plans.

As such, Calafiori was touted as an alternative, with the 22-year-old centre-half putting up some standout displays at the UEFA Euro 2024.

Real Madrid not interested

However, according to The Daily Briefing, Real Madrid have no interest in signing Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna at this point.

In fact, Los Blancos are not considering any alternatives for the centre-back position and only want to sign Leny Yoro from Lille.

Calafiori would have been an interesting option, considering that he is a left-footed centre-back who can also play at left-back.

Real Madrid only want Leny Yoro. (Photo by SEBASTIEN SALOM-GOMIS/AFP via Getty Images)

However, it appears that the reigning champions of Spain and Europe only have eyes for one player and that is Yoro.

Real Madrid have agreement with Yoro

In fact, as has already been reported, Real Madrid have an agreement in principle with Yoro over a transfer this summer. But negotiations with his club, Lille, are proving to be challenging.

The 18-year-old defensive gem has a contract with Lille that expires in 2025. As such, Real Madrid are not willing to pay over the odds for his signing and have set a €40 million limit.

However, the Ligue 1 outfit are demanding a sum in excess of €50 million, posing a roadblock in Los Merengues’ pursuit.

Real Madrid, though, have an advantage as Yoro is prepared to turn down overtures from other teams, which increases the risk of Lille losing him for nothing next year if they do not negotiate with the Spanish capital club.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication