Liverpool 'on standby' should Leny Yoro's Real Madrid move fall through

Liverpool aren't giving up just yet. The club remain hopeful in their pursuit of Lille's Leny Yoro, despite the player’s preference for a move to Real Madrid.

That's according to James Pearce from The Athletic, who writes that Liverpool are prepared to step in if the 18-year-old French centre-back's deal with the European champions falls through.

However, it will be a tough ask. Satisfied with the personal terms offered, Yoro has already informed Real Madrid of his desire to join them.

That said, the two clubs are yet to agree on a transfer fee, with Lille holding out for around €60 million.

Yoro is 'a unique market opportunity'

“Senior Anfield figures have long since expected the European champions to win the race for his signature," Pearce wrote.

But Liverpool regard Yoro as a "unique market opportunity", according to Pearce, "given his age, talent, potential and contract situation [with only one year left]."

This is why "they want to be at the front of the queue if the switch to Real falls through.”

Centre-back, a priority for Liverpool

The summer transfer window is crucial for Liverpool, with several new players expected to join the squad, particularly in defence.

Liverpool’s defensive issues last season highlighted the need for reinforcements, especially after Joel Matip’s season-ending injury suffered in December.

The timely emergence of young defender Jarell Quansah, resulting in a call-up to Gareth Southgate's preliminary England squad for Euro 2024, alleviated some of this urgency. Nevertheless, Liverpool will remain vigilant in the market for potential centre-back signings.

“Another centre-back would certainly be useful given Matip’s departure and Ibrahima Konate’s issues with fitness and form, but the challenge is finding the right player at a suitable price,” Pearce wrote.

In addition to Yoro, Bologna's Riccardo Calafiori has also been linked. However, it would appear that the Italian favours a move to Juventus.

While Arne Slot’s squad is in a strong position, adding depth to the back-line could further solidify their ambitions for the upcoming season.