Real Madrid are said to be monitoring Valencia’s Yarek Gasiorowski in their search for a new centre-back.

The European and Spanish champions had been hoping to strengthen in defence over the summer, with Leny Yoro their top target. However, the were reluctant to meet Lille’s demands and the teenage sensation wound up signing for Manchester United instead.

Madrid’s lack of depth in central defence has been exposed already this season, with right-back Dani Carvajal having to fill in to make up for their lack of cover.

AS report that Los Blancos are indeed back in the market for a centre-back, and one player of particular interest is 19-year-old Yarek.

His contract at Valencia contains a €45m release clause, but this number will rise once he reaches 20 first-team appearances – he is currently on 19.

If Madrid move for Yarek, it is likely that they would need to negotiate with Valencia as they are reluctant to pay a large sum up front. However, the two clubs are not on good terms, which is best demonstrated by the fact they have not done direct transfer business since 2009 when Raul Albiol swapped the Mestalla for the Santiago Bernabeu.

Yarek is also wanted by Atletico, Inter and Red Bull Salzburg. While Madrid appreciate his profile as a taller defender, they will only firm up their interest if it fits their ‘strategic’ needs.

For example, manager Carlo Ancelotti asked Madrid to pursue Harry Kane in 2023 prior to his switch to Bayern Munich. The board knocked back his request as they were already planning for Kylian Mbappe’s arrival on a free transfer one year later.

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