Real Madrid can avoid signing a new central defender after Leny Yoro snub, 2023 example used as a reference

Real Madrid have returned to the drawing board after missing out on the signing of Leny Yoro, their main target to bolster their options in the center of defense. Los Blancos had hoped the 18-year-old would reject Manchester United's advances, but he did not, and is now set to sign for them in the coming days.

Despite this, Real Madrid has no intention of being reactive. Brand they have detailed the club's plans for the central midfielder position, and for now, it is not urgent that another player be signed. They are set to stick with Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao as their first-choice options, and there is existing cover.

Aurelien Tchouameni filled in at centre-back on numerous occasions last summer, and Carlo Ancelotti will again use the midfielder when needed. In addition, Jesus Vallejo is now expected to stay, and would be another option.

Real Madrid is relaxed about the situation, and they use last summer as a reason not to panic. No replacement was signed for Karim Benzema on that occasion, with Joselu Mato initially brought on as a depth option – despite this, Los Blancos walked away with the La Liga and Champions League titles.

It will be very interesting to see if this strategy pays off Real Madrid. They managed to survive with only two natural defenders for most of last season, so there is evidence to show that it can be done again. However, it will put a lot of strain on Rudiger and Militao – especially the latter, who tore his ACL less than a year ago.