Real Madrid have reportedly joined Liverpool in the race to sign Leny Yoro, with Manchester United also in contention.

The Spanish giants are the latest side to register an interest in the LOSC Lille defender, with Yoro considered one of the most exciting prospects in world football.

Valued at £43m, Yoro has, naturally, ended up on Liverpool’s radar, with the Reds keen on signing a young centre-back to add to their ranks in the January transfer window.

However, according to TeamTalk, Madrid are now interested in signing Yoro, with Erik Ten Hag’s United also keeping tabs on the 18-year-old prospect.

Indeed, competition is increasing on a seemingly weekly basis for Yoro’s signature, with Liverpool slowly losing their grasp on the race for the Lille defender.

And with Madrid now interested in Yoro, Liverpool have to stamp their authority on the transfer battle, with the Reds needing to make a statement with the French youth international.

Liverpool have to beat Real Madrid to Leny Yoro in January

Liverpool have been burnt by Madrid on more than a few occasions in the transfer market, with Jude Bellingham the latest player to slip through the Reds’ fingers via Los Blancos.

As a result, the Anfield side can’t suffer another loss in the window from Madrid, with Yoro a prospect who should end up at Liverpool next month.

Joel Matip’s injury means a defender is essential for the Reds in the January market, and Yoro should be the player Liverpool invests their time and effort into.

And with Madrid in the race, there can’t be any room for error for Liverpool, who have to move fast to secure Yoro’s signature before it’s too late.