Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Liverpool eyeing Los Blancos ace, club identify Leny Yoro alternative, and more - July 12, 2024
Real Madrid enjoyed a stunning 2023-24 campaign under Carlo Ancelotti and are already working to get better next season. The Italian manager has added Kylian Mbappe to his squad this summer and is eyeing further reinforcements.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are interested in Andriy Lunin. Elsewhere, Los Blancos have identified a former player as a possible alternative to Leny Yoro.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from July 12, 2024.
Liverpool eyeing Andriy Lunin
Liverpool have entered the race to sign Andriy Lunin this summer, according to HITC. The Ukrainian goalkeeper is in the final year of his contract at the Santiago Bernabeu and hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Lunin enjoyed a stunning 2023-24 campaign with Real Madrid, ably covering for the injured Thibaut Courtois. The 25-year-old registered 12 clean sheets from 31 games across competitions, playing a key role in the club's success.
However, he fell down the pecking order once the Belgian returned to full fitness in the final weeks of the campaign. Lunin is understandably frustrated by the situation and is considering his future this summer.
The Ukrainian is not short of options, with Arsenal also eyeing him with interest. The Reds have now entered the fray as they look for a new goalkeeper. Alisson Becker is heavily linked with a move to the Middle East, although Arne Slot is likely to fight tooth and nail to keep hold of the Brazilian.
However, should Alisson leave, Slot has identified Lunin as an able replacement. The 25-year-old will certainly be tempted to move to Anfield to become Slot's new No. 1.
Real Madrid identify Leny Yoro alternative
Real Madrid have identified Mario Gila as a plan B in case they miss out on Leny Yoro this summer, according to AS. The French defender is a wanted man this summer on the back of a breakthrough season with Lille.
Yoro's assured performances at the back for the Ligue 1 side have earned him admirers at multiple clubs across the continent. The 18-year-old's contract expires in less than a year and he's unlikely to sign a new deal.
Los Blancos want the player at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer but are reluctant to match Lille's asking price for the teenager. The La Liga giants are willing to wait for the Frenchman to become a free agent next summer, but Manchester United are threatening to ruin their plans.
The Red Devils are in the market for a new defender and are hot on the heels of Yoro. They have reportedly stuck a deal with Lille regarding a move, and are working to convince the player.
Real Madrid remain optimistic about winning the race for the Frenchman, who apparently dreams of joining the La Liga champions. However, the Premier League giants could force a change of heart by offering him a lucrative deal.
Los Blancos have identified Gila as their backup plan if such a scenario emerges. The Spaniard rose through the ranks at the Santiago Bernabeu before joining Lazio in 2022. He was outstanding for the Italian club last season and is one of the fastest players in Serie A.
Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on his development. They own 50 percent of the player's rights, so a cut-price deal could be possible this summer. Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus, and Inter Milan also have their eyes on the 23-year-old.
Los Blancos wanted Xavi Simons in 2022
Real Madrid were interested in Xavi Simons in 2022, according to L'Equipe. The Dutch midfielder was contemplating a departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) that summer.
Los Blancos offered to sign him and wanted to add him to the Real Madrid Castilla squad. However, Simon turned them down and opted to join PSV Eindhoven instead.
That decision has been vindicated, as the Dutchman has enjoyed a spectacular rise ever since. He was a huge hit at the Philips Stadium, prompting PSG to re-sign him last summer and loan him out to RB Leipzig.
Simon continued his good form at the Red Bull Arena, registering 10 goals and 15 assists in 43 games across competitions last season. He is now expected to return to the Parc des Princes this year and fight for a place in Luis Enrique's team.