Italian defender on Real Madrid’s radar as backup for Leny Yoro – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid have extensively scouted the French market in their hunt for a new defender. With Nacho Fernandez no longer at the club, there is an urgent need for a new signing and Leny Yoro stands as the best-placed candidate.

Negotiations with Lille over the youngster’s transfer, however, have been far from simple. After all, the Ligue 1 side demands a fee higher than what Florentino Perez is willing to shell out and they appear to be firm in their demands.

The Plan B

Just like Yoro, Riccardo Calafiori of Bologna has caught the eye of Real Madrid as a strong candidate. However, AS reveals that he is only being considered as a backup plan for Los Blancos if Lille refuse to accept their terms.

Riccardo Calafiori has attracted Real Madrid’s interest. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images for FIGC)

Real Madrid are thus silently in the race for Calafiori’s signing alongside Juventus and other European giants. As of today, it is said that Bologna are demanding €40 million for the player with 40% set to go to his former club FC Basel.

The Merengues’ interest in Calafiori, needless to say, is a massive blow in the face of the Lille administration who slowly understand they do not have the liberty to dictate terms this summer.

After all, Real Madrid now boast of a backup option and the French side risks losing Yoro on a free transfer next summer as it stands.

Gap to be bridged?

While Lille demand €60 million for their young jewel, Real Madrid have set their limit at €40 million and do not intend to let any extra cash into the deal.

Considering the player’s situation and the now-added factor of Los Blancos having a reserve option, it is highly likely that Lille cave into the pressure and accept the Spanish giants’ terms.

As revealed earlier the week, the administration at Valdebebas is in continuous contact with the French club for updates.