Real Madrid Transfer News Roundup: Los Blancos suffer Leny Yoro blow, Arsenal eyeing Andriy Lunin, and more - July 16, 2024
Real Madrid are eyeing multiple additions to their squad before the start of the new campaign. Carlo Ancelotti has already added Kylian Mbappe and Endrick to his squad and is scouting the market for further reinforcements.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos have suffered a setback in their efforts to sign Leny Yoro. Elsewhere, Arsenal have set their sights on Andriy Lunin.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from July 16, 2024.
Real Madrid suffer Leny Yoro blow
Manchester United have offered a long-term contract proposal to Leny Yoro, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg.
The Frenchman is a target for Real Madrid, who are in the market for defensive reinforcements this summer.
The La Liga giants have recently bid adieu to Nacho Fernandez, with the Spaniard opting to move to the Middle East. Meanwhile, David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger are both in their 30s.
Los Blancos have set their sights on Yoro to address the situation and the player is apparently keen to move to the Santiago Bernabeu as well. However, Manchester United are threatening to ruin their plans.
The Frenchman's contract with Lille expires at the end of next season and he hasn't signed a new deal yet. The Ligue 1 side want a massive fee to let their prized asset leave this summer. Real Madrid have no desire to break the bank for a player in the final year of his contract and are hoping to lap him up for free in 2025.
However, Manchester United have reportedly agreed terms with Lille for a move this summer. The English giants have been relentless in their pursuit of the 18-year-old and are now pushing to convince him to leave.
The Red Devils are ready to offer the player a lucrative contract until 2029 and Leny's head could be turned by their intense desire to see him at Old Trafford.
Arsenal eyeing Andriy Lunin
Arsenal have submitted a contract proposal for Andriy Lunim, according to AS.
The Ukrainian goalkeeper has entered the final year of his contract with Real Madrid and hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Lunin was outstanding for Los Blancos last season, stepping up in the absence of Thibaut Courtois and delivering a string of impressive performances. He registered 12 clean sheets from 31 games across competitions, but Courtois was reinstated as the No. 1 upon his return from injury.
The situation has added to the 25-year-old's frustration, and he is apparently considering his options this summer. The Gunners are looking for a new goalkeeper this year amid the uncertainties surrounding the future of Aaron Ramsdale.
With David Raya signing a permanent deal at the Emirates, the English goalkeeper is reportedly keen to move on in search of greener pastures. The north London side would prefer Ramsdale to stay but are gearing up for his departure.
They have identified Lunin as a possible replacement and have already reached out to the player's camp to discuss a possible move. Real Madrid want him to stay and have already offered him a new five-year deal that will keep him at the club until 2029.
However, the Ukrainian is yet to decide on his next move. Should he leave, Los Blancos have reportedly identified Kepa Arrizabalaga as a possible replacement. The Chelsea shot-stopper spent last season on loan at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Zinedine Zidane heaps praise on Jude Bellingham
Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has heaped praise on Jude Bellingham. The English midfielder arrived at the Santiago Bernabeu from Borussia Dortmund last summer and took Zidane's fabled No. 5 shirt.
He proceeded to register a fabulous debut campaign, scoring 23 goals and setting up 13 more from 42 games across competitions. The 21-year-old helped the club win the La Liga, the Champions League, and the Supercopa de Espana.
Bellingham started every game for England at Euro 2024 as they reached the final, registering two goals and an assist in seven outings. However, Gareth Southgate's team were beaten 2-1 by Spain in the summit clash.
Speaking to The Athletic, Zidane stated the Englishman was the right fit for Real Madrid.
“I love Jude Bellingham and I love his personality in the sense that he’s hungry and always wants to do more. I’m glad he’s at Real Madrid. He’s the right player for Madrid. We saw something this year, but I think in the future we are going to see a very strong Jude Bellingham who is going to be Real Madrid history,” said Zidane.
Bellingham's role with Los Blancos could change next season following the arrival of Kylian Mbappe.