Real Madrid ‘set price cap’ for Manchester United target as three-way battle emerges

Real Madrid have reportedly set a maximum price they are willing to pay for one of Manchester United’s transfer targets as a three-way battle with PSG emerges.

Over the past six months, Manchester United have been frequently linked to many different centre-backs. INEOS‘ long-standing interest in acquiring new defenders this summer has meant many options are currently being considered at Old Trafford.

With Raphaël Varane set to depart and the futures of Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire, and Victor Lindelöf uncertain, United feel they must secure two new central defenders for Old Trafford this summer.

Read More: Jarrad Branthwaite explains why he is Manchester United’s ideal centre-back target despite priority change

A key aspect of United’s defensive strategy is the presence of a left-footed defender, a role currently filled by Lisandro Martínez. Despite his limited appearances last season due to injuries, playing just 14 times, the team’s performance significantly improved when he was on the field.

United aim to sign one right-footed and one left-footed centre-back in the upcoming transfer window. However, Varane’s departure has shifted the club’s priorities, making the acquisition of a right-footed defender their top priority, despite initially planning to sign a left-footed defender first.

Lille central defender Leny Yoro has been repeatedly linked to Old Trafford over the last month. The 18-year-old sensation has been impressing with quality performances in Ligue 1 and has attracted the interest of both Real Madrid and Manchester United.

With this in mind, Spanish outlet AS has claimed that the two teams have now been handed a further rival for Yoro. The French giants Paris St. Germain are also looking to secure his signing this summer, aiming to take advantage of the Frenchman’s familiarity with Ligue 1.

However, AS also claims that Madrid have set the maximum price they are willing to pay for Yoro. Although he is rated at over £50 million, Los Blancos will reportedly refuse to go over £34 million. This price cap hands both United and PSG the chance to outbid the La Liga outfit.

Although Madrid is portrayed as Yoro’s first choice, PSG is said to be willing to make a higher offer, and a further report from Marca earlier this week claimed United are willing to meet the £50 million asking price.

Yoro, who is fantastic both in the air and with his feet, is a fantastic replacement for Varane and may have the ability to eclipse the World Cup winner’s talent. However, beating Varane’s trophy haul may be a tad harder.

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