Real Madrid have a pull in the world of football that can be replicated by few. The sheer weight of the Merengues‘ jersey is a challenge no player would want to miss, and Leny Yoro is no different.

The French centre-back is Los Blancos’ primary target to reinforce the defence ahead of next season. With Kylian Mbappe and Alphonso Davies already on the agenda, however, they cannot splash as much cash as they would have liked to.

Player is firm

According to reports from MARCA, the youngster defender is clear about his future. Real Madrid is the only club he desires to represent, and he has communicated the same to the Lille management.

His contract with the French club ends in June 2025, and the player is under severe pressure to renew. However, he is holding off talks with the hope that his club will succumb to pressure and place him on the market.

Lille ask for €100 million for the 18-year-old sensation, and rightfully so, given his high ceiling. After all, parties like Chelsea are willing to shell out an astronomical sum for his incorporation.

Real Madrid, however, are firm that they will not pay over €30 million to €40 million for Yoro. The gap from Lille’s asking price is vast, but Los Blancos hope to tread the same path they have with Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, and Jude Bellingham.

Enter Jorge Mendes

Given his complicated situation at Lille and the desire to don white, Yoro has handed over matters surrounding his agent to his manager Jorge Mendes.

Real Madrid have not shared the best of bonds with the Portuguese agent in recent times, but it is now understood that both parties are working toward a common goal.

Mendes does not wish to disappoint Yoro, one of the most prodigal players under his representation, and is already in contact with Real Madrid.

The hope from the Valdebebas is that Lille will crumble under the pressure and release their player for an affordable amount. If not, the option of running down his contract as Real Madrid did with Kylian Mbappe always exists.