Real Madrid is reportedly keeping a close eye on Valencia’s Yarek Gasiorowski as they search for a new center-back. The reigning European and Spanish champions had hoped to strengthen their defense over the summer, with Leny Yoro being their top target. However, they were unwilling to meet Lille’s demands, and Yoro ended up signing with Manchester United instead.
Madrid’s lack of depth in central defense has already been exposed this season, forcing right-back Dani Carvajal to fill in due to the lack of cover. According to AS, Los Blancos are now back in the market for a center-back, and one player who has caught their attention is 19-year-old Yarek.
Yarek currently has a release clause of €45 million in his contract with Valencia. However, this amount will increase once he reaches 20 first-team appearances – he is currently on 19.
If Madrid decides to pursue Yarek, it is likely that negotiations will be necessary since they are reluctant to pay a large sum upfront. However, the relationship between the two clubs is not favorable as they have not engaged in direct transfer business since Raul Albiol moved from Mestalla to Santiago Bernabeu in 2009.
Yarek is also attracting interest from Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and Red Bull Salzburg. While Madrid appreciates his profile as a taller defender, they will only solidify their interest if it aligns with their strategic needs.
For instance, manager Carlo Ancelotti previously requested Madrid’s pursuit of Harry Kane before his move to Bayern Munich in 2023. However, the board rejected his request as they were already planning for Kylian Mbappe’s arrival on a free transfer one year later.
