Real Madrid's centre-back plans after missing out on Leny Yoro revealed

  • Real Madrid missed out on Leny Yoro after Man Utd quickly agreed initial £52m deal
  • Los Blancos currently have Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao and David Alaba as specialist options
  • How the reigning Spanish and European giants plan to deal with Yoro's decision
Yoro opted to join Man Utd
Yoro opted to join Man Utd / Jean Catuffe/GettyImages
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Real Madrid have no plans to pursue another centre-back this summer after missing out on Leny Yoro to Manchester United, according to a report.

Los Blancos looked to be in the driving seat as they targeted a deal for the teenage defender, who was said to be happy to wait until an acceptable transfer offer was presented by the La Liga and Champions League holders to former club Lille.

However, United quickly agreed an initial £52m deal with the Ligue 1 side - one which could reach £59m if various add-ons are fulfilled - and announced his arrival on Thursday on a contract until 2029 with the option for another year.

Despite seeing club captain Nacho Fernandez depart for the Saudi Pro League already this summer, Madrid won't be rushed into attempting to sign another centre-back.


Tune in to 90min's YouTube channel as Scott Saunders gets the expert lowdown on Leny Yoro from French football journalist Quentin Gesp.


MARCA claim Madrid won't panic having missed out on Yoro, even with only Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao and David Alaba - the latter two suffered anterior cruciate ligament injuries last season - as specialist options at centre-back.

Rafa Marin, who spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Alaves, has also departed permanently alongside Nacho to sign for Serie A side Napoli.

Aurelien Tchouameni was dropped into central defence due to the injuries suffered by Militao and Alaba and will likely be called upon to do so again next season. Jesus Vallejo is expected to be moved on this summer but could provide cover if no transfer materialises for the 27-year-old.

Rudiger and Militao are expected to make up Carlo Ancelotti's regular centre-back partnership throughout 2024/25, with concern lingering over Alaba's condition.

Recent reports have suggested the Austria international may not be ready to play again until 2025 after suffering his ACL blow in a La Liga match against Villarreal in December last year.


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