Three potential centre-backs Real Madrid might sign following Nacho decision

Real Madrid will conclude Nacho’s 23-year partnership on June 30, as the centre-back is scheduled to depart the European champions on the expiration of his current contract.

The 34-year-old, who appeared in 46 matches for Los Blancos last season, was expected to sign an additional one-year contract with Carlo Ancelotti’s team. However, he has elected to pursue other opportunities.

Consequently, it is anticipated that Real Madrid will acquire a new center-back this summer to augment their current roster, which comprises Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and David Alaba.

With this in mind, Sports Mole examines three players who could conceivably be of interest to the La Liga giants following Nacho’s decision to conclude his glittering Bernabeu career.

Leny Yoro (Lille)
Nacho’s departure from Real Madrid could have detrimental consequences for Manchester United, Liverpool, and Paris Saint-Germain, as the Spanish club may now intensify their pursuit of Lille’s Yoro.

Last season, the 18-year-old, who is considered one of the most promising youth players in the world of football, appeared in 44 matches for his French club and scored three goals.

Yoro’s contract is set to expire next summer, and it is anticipated that he will be on the market for approximately €60 million (£51 million).

Real Madrid is believed to be the defender’s preferable club, and Yoro is anticipated to await the Spanish organization’s confirmation of their position before reaching an agreement with another team.

The adolescent may now be on his way to the Spanish capital in time for the 2024-25 campaign.

Antonio Silva (Benfica)
Silva, like Yoro, is considered one of the most exceptional talented centre-backs in the world of football. It would not be surprising to see him depart Benfica for a lucrative contract in the near future.

The 20-year-old, who is presently with the Portugal squad at Euro 2024, is also believed to be of interest to Man United.

Benfica is in a good position to secure Silva’s future, as his current contract includes a €100 million (£84.4 million) release clause.

Real Madrid is believed to be in favour of replacing Nacho with a young centre-back rather than an established talent. Silva is a likely candidate for Ancelotti’s team; however, he would be more expensive than Yoro.

Goncalo Inacio (Sporting Lisbon)
Sporting’s Inacio is another player who appears to be on the move this summer. Additionally, the defender is presently participating in the Portugal squad at the European Championship this summer.

During the 2023-24 campaign, the 22-year-old exhibited exceptional performance for his Portuguese club, appearing in 50 matches across all competitions, netting four goals, and providing one assist.

Inacio’s contract has three additional years remaining, but his release clause is estimated to be €60m (£50.6m). Consequently, he has the potential to be the most affordable athlete on this list.

In all competitions, the centre-back has made 171 appearances for Sporting, including 13 appearances in the Champions League, and he demonstrated his quality last season.

It is also reported that Man United is monitoring Inacio, Yoro, and Silva. Consequently, the center-back market is expected to be an intriguing development in the coming weeks, with a single transfer potentially triggering a domino effect.