The defenders Real Madrid could sign after missing out on Leny Yoro to Man United

• Real Madrid are on the market for a central defender after the club’s failure to secure a deal for Leny Yoro
• The French defender, initially linked with the La Liga club, has opted to pen a contract with Manchester United
• Legit.ng beams the searchlights on a list of alternatives Real Madrid could consider after missing out on Yoro

Even the most successful clubs sometimes face setbacks, and that's currently the case with Real Madrid.

The La Liga giants have been linked all summer with signing young defender, Leny Yoro; however, the defender appears to have slipped through their grasp.

Leny Yoro during the French Ligue 1 match between Lille OSC and Olympique Lyonnais at Pierre-Mauroy Stadium on May 6, 2023. Image: Hollandse Hoogte.
Source: Getty Images

According to transfer expert, David Ornstein, courtesy of The Athletic, the French defender is set on joining Manchester United after they agreed to a transfer deal with Lille worth €70 million plus add-ons.

This situation leaves Real Madrid with a gap in their defence, especially following the recent departure of veteran defender and captain, Nacho Fernandez, who has left the club after approximately 23 years.

In light of this, Legit.ng highlights potential replacements Real Madrid could consider after missing out on Yoro.

Defenders Real Madrid could consider after missing out on Yoro

Riccardo Calafiori

The 22-year-old is among several defenders Real Madrid could consider to bolster their centre-back position.

The Bologna defender had a sensational 2023/24 Serie A season and further impressed with his performances in the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.

According to Football London, the former Roma star is attracting interest from several clubs, including Arsenal, who have initiated contact with his representatives.

Real Madrid could consider a move for this versatile defender, as his addition would significantly strengthen their current defensive setup.

Nico Schlotterbeck

Real Madrid might also consider signing the versatile 24-year-old German defender.

With the Bundesliga outfit recently acquiring Waldemar Anton, the German defender could be open to leaving Signal Iduna Park.

Given the strong relationship between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, securing this transfer is likely to be more cost-effective.

William Saliba

The Arsenal defender is another player the La Liga powerhouse might consider signing.

The 23-year-old has established himself as one of the Premier League's best young defenders, catching the eye of the Spanish champions with his performances.

According to a report from Caught Offside, the La Liga club's hierarchy is interested in signing the Arsenal star. However, acquiring Saliba is expected to be expensive, as he is often referred to as a "Rolls Royce" of a defender.

Jesus Vallejo

The 27-year-old is another option Real Madrid could consider.

The defender, who was purchased from Real Zaragoza, has been attached to Real Madrid since 2015.

The defender recently returned from an uneventful loan spell with Granada.

Vallejo currently appears to be the most cost-effective option for Real Madrid. If the club chooses not to spend extravagantly on defenders, the Spanish star could be an ideal fit to provide cover for Carlo Ancelotti's side.

Real Madrid's greatest number 9s

In another report, Legit.ng compiled a list of the finest players to have worn the Real Madrid number nine jersey.

The list includes notable names such as Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo, among others.

Source: TUKO.co.ke