Liverpool could have it third-time lucky in Real Madrid transfer battle this summer

Liverpool appear set to go head-to-head with Real Madrid for yet another summer signing in the transfer market.

The Reds are likely to be in the market for several potential new signings this summer. New head coach Arne Slot will begin overseeing pre-season training next month and could help integrate new additions to his squad when they travel to the United States for three friendly fixtures.

One player who has been linked with a move to Liverpool is Leny Yoro. The Lille centre-back has emerged as a target for the Reds in Slot's first summer transfer window.

The ECHO understands that Liverpool are keeping tabs on Yoro with a view to making a potential move this summer, while Manchester United are also thought to hold an interest. However, the Reds are aware that Real Madrid have an interest in the player and there is an expectation that Yoro could move to the Santiago Bernabeu due to a preference to sign for the La Liga giants.

READ MORE: Arne Slot's dream month as Liverpool wait on transfer hint and injury news

READ KORE: Liverpool told which two transfers can replace Mohamed Salah this summer

However, there is still a chance that Liverpool could beat the Spanish club to Yoro's signature this summer. The Reds are prepared to intensify their interest in signing the centre-back should a move to Real fail to materialise.

This is not the first time that Liverpool have been face with a battle against the La Liga champions for a summer signing. It was in 2022 that the Reds wanted to sign Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco, only for the France international to complete a move to Spain instead potentially worth up to £85 million.

Then, just 12 months later, Liverpool were in the running to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund. Despite having a long-standing interest in the midfielder, Bellingham opted to sign to move to Madrid and the Reds missed out on yet another target.

This time, in 2024, Liverpool may have hopes of a different outcome. If Yoro does prefer a move to Madrid and the La Liga giants have the means to complete a deal, then the Reds may not have much hope.

However, Liverpool appear to be staying in the race with the optimism that an opportunity may still arise. The Reds could do with a new centre-back following the departure of Joel Matip, and Yoro would certainly fit the bill.