Leny Yoro, who had been connected to Liverpool for a while, finally signed with Manchester United earlier this week, leaving many supporters quite disappointed even though it was said that Real Madrid was his ideal destination.
According to James Pearce, the Reds were unwilling to spend €70 million (£58.9 million) on a young player who is still relatively inexperienced at the highest level, and they were unable to provide the 18-year-old with the guarantees he was looking for about playing time.
Even if LFC ultimately gave up the fight for the French player, they might gain the upper hand in a similar situation involving another defence.
James Horncastle reported last month that Liverpool had asked for Italy’s Riccardo Calafiori’s availability. Calafiori was the only bright spot for the Azzurri in a generally poor Euro 2024.
Arsenal appeared to be in the lead for the 22-year-old, but Football.London reports that they are only prepared to spend £34 million, which is £8 million less than Bologna is asking for.
With the Gunners potentially facing the failure of their pursuit of Calafiori, Liverpool now have a fantastic opportunity to put any unresolved feelings about Yoro behind them and make their Premier League rivals pay for their unwillingness to match the Italian’s asking price.
A few days ago, the 22-year-old saved the day by setting up Mattia Zaccagni’s last-minute equalizer against Croatia; without it, the Azzurri would not have advanced to the next round.
Calafiori, a Bologna gem who can also play on the left flank if necessary, might provide Liverpool with the left-footed centre-back option they now lack (Transfermarkt).
The Rise Of Leny Yoro: A Career Snapshot
In addition, Yoro has only played in one regular season for the first team, but over the previous four years, he has competed at the senior level in Serie A, the Europa League, and a significant national event.
When considering it that way, the £42 million that United paid for the Frenchman would have been a lot better deal than what Hughes received for his services, and Arsenal’s indecision has given Richard Hughes a fantastic opportunity to surpass the Gunners.
It would help spark Liverpool’s transfer window, which has been a tumbleweed so far.