Chelsea show up to rival Real Madrid to signing – Ambitious idea from Blues leadership

Chelsea have joined the race to sign Lille young star Leny Yoro, according to Monday’s AS.

The 18-year-old has made 51 appearances for the Ligue 1 side since making his first team debut in May 2022, out of which 35 are from this season.

His recent performances have caught the attention of several clubs across Europe, including Chelsea and Real Madrid.

The newspaper focuses on Los Blancos’ interest as he’s their main centre-back target for the summer. His deal lasts until 2025 and sources have told AS that Lille need a fee of around €60m for their ‘great jewel’.

Although this figure may seem too high, it’s stated he’s one of the best young centre-backs in the world. The report further adds ‘there is no ceiling in sight’ for his future projection.

Paris Saint-Germain are well aware of this and that’s why they had tried and failed signing him in January. They are still in the picture, along with Real Madrid. AS add that these two clubs are joined by Chelsea and Bayern Munich as Yoro’s ‘most powerful suitors’.

Real Madrid have to ‘face competition’ from the Blues, PSG and Bayern for the France U21 international’s signature.

They have an advantage in the transfer race as they have several of his compatriots in their squad. Yoro’s entourage see this as an important aspect for him to continue his development.

Both Chelsea and PSG also have several French players and this isn’t something that AS have taken into account.

Real Madrid want Lille to agree to their financial conditions and if not, they’ll try to sign Yoro for free in 2025. The latter are in a ‘position of weakness’, which is why they are keen to extend his deal.