Journalist: Liverpool Pessimistic Over £85m Target – ‘Prefers Real Madrid Move’ | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Hopes for Leny Yoro Dampened by Real Madrid’s Interest

Liverpool’s Troubled History with Real Madrid

Liverpool’s recent encounters with Real Madrid have been anything but positive. The Reds have faced disappointment both on and off the pitch, losing crucial Champions League clashes and missing out on key transfer targets. Real Madrid defeated Liverpool in two Champions League finals and eliminated them in three consecutive tournaments between 2020 and 2022. The agony for Liverpool fans was compounded by the losses in the transfer market, where Real Madrid outmaneuvered them for players like Aurelien Tchouameni and Jude Bellingham.

Leny Yoro: Liverpool’s Latest Target

Liverpool are actively seeking to bolster their defence this summer, with Lille’s Leny Yoro emerging as a prime target. Reports on Saturday indicated that Liverpool are now ‘forcefully’ attempting to secure Yoro, competing against Real Madrid, PSG, and Manchester United. However, journalist Graeme Bailey, in an exclusive with Rousing The Kop; has cast doubt on Liverpool’s chances, stating that while the Reds ‘love’ Yoro, they believe his preference lies with Real Madrid.

“In terms of Yoro, from what I’m told the English clubs who are interested in him, which is a lot – Chelsea, United, Liverpool – they all love him. But they think he wants to go to Real Madrid,” says Bailey. “So, that’s the issue with him. I’m not saying he would turn down any of these clubs, but from what I’m told his preference is Madrid.”

The Financial Challenge of Signing Yoro

Yoro’s impressive performance at Lille has made him a highly sought-after talent. The 18-year-old has shown exceptional skill and maturity, making him an ideal candidate for Liverpool’s defence. At one point this season, Yoro was winning more duels than Virgil van Dijk, highlighting his potential as a long-term successor to the Liverpool captain.

However, signing Yoro would not come cheap. According to The Athletic, Lille has previously set a price-tag of around £85 million on Yoro. Bailey concurs, noting that “the France U21 international would not come at all cheap.” This substantial fee poses a significant hurdle for Liverpool, particularly given their cautious spending approach under Fenway Sports Group (FSG). While FSG has occasionally made exceptions for extraordinary talents like Van Dijk, spending £85 million on an 18-year-old might be a stretch.

Real Madrid’s Advantage in the Transfer Market

Real Madrid’s financial muscle and appeal present a formidable challenge for Liverpool. Perez and Madrid’s willingness to spend big on young talent contrasts with Liverpool’s more measured approach. This financial disparity often tilts the scales in Madrid’s favor, as seen in previous transfer battles. Moreover, the allure of playing for a club with Real Madrid’s prestige can be irresistible for young players like Yoro.

Photo: IMAGO

Uncertain Future for Yoro

Despite the current pessimism, the transfer market is inherently unpredictable. Yoro has just one year left on his contract with Lille, putting the French club in a vulnerable negotiating position. This contractual situation could potentially open doors for Liverpool if Real Madrid’s interest wanes or if Yoro decides to explore other opportunities. As Bailey remarks, “I think if he’s available Liverpool would be in the market for him because he’s a top, top prospect, he really is, he’s only 18. But he wouldn’t be cheap. I’m not sure he’s the top one on Liverpool’s list just because they don’t think he’s attainable at this point.”

In conclusion, while Liverpool’s admiration for Leny Yoro is evident, the road to securing his signature is fraught with challenges. Real Madrid’s interest, coupled with the high transfer fee, makes this pursuit complex. Yet, in the volatile world of football transfers, surprises are always possible. Liverpool fans will hope that this time, the club can outmaneuver their Spanish rivals and bring Yoro to Anfield.