Real Madrid eye another Premier League top target

The international right back has a contract in England until 2028 and transfer costs could increase significantly.

In the complicated world of football transfers, few things are truly impossible. Yet Real Madrid's pursuit of Pedro Porro (born Don Benito, Badajoz, in 1999) is entering the territory of extreme complexity. Despite the mutual interest between the club and the player, one almost insurmountable barrier looms: Daniel Levy, the determined CEO of Tottenham Hotspur.

Levy, known for his tenacious negotiating style, has proven to be a formidable opponent for Real Madrid in the past. Both Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez, who endured grueling talks during the signings of Luka Modrić and Gareth Bale, can attest to the toll such negotiations take. Levy's ability to extract maximum value from high-stakes transactions has cemented his reputation as one of the strongest managers in football.

Why Pedro Porro is catching Madrid's attention

Real Madrid's admiration for the Spain international is not new. Porro, who plays as a right back, is frequently discussed as a potential successor to Dani Carvajal. Known for his defensive stability and attacking contributions, he is seen as a versatile option.

However, competition for Madrid's right-back position is fierce. Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold is another name on their radar. While Arnold's attacking prowess is unparalleled, doubts about his defensive consistency dampen Madrid's enthusiasm. His contract, which expires in 2025, combined with his status as a global star, positions him as the leading candidate.

Porro, on the other hand, offers a more defensively balanced profile, but cost is a significant obstacle. His contract with Tottenham runs until 2028 and the club initially paid Sporting CP $47.5 million less than two years ago. Levy's rating? A staggering $70 million – much more than what Real Madrid are willing to receive for this position.

Tottenham's ruthless CEO: a familiar obstacle

Daniel Levy's reputation as an astute negotiator precedes him. He has a strong professional relationship with CAA Base, the agency that represents Porro and several other Tottenham players, including James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr, Son Heung-min and Richarlison. Despite this connection, few expect Levy to budge from his tough stance.

Real Madrid's unwillingness to enter into negotiations at such a high price leaves Porro's dream of wearing the famous white jersey in jeopardy. The Spanish star, an outspoken admirer of Isco, has long eyed a move to the Santiago Bernabéu but the obstacles appear almost insurmountable.

The competition is heating up: Manchester's influence

Complicating matters even further is Manchester United. Sources close to Porro believe that the appointment of Rubén Amorim as United head coach would likely spark interest in bringing the player to Old Trafford. Amorim previously coached Porro during his standout years at Sporting CP, where he fostered a close and productive relationship.

Manchester City also remains a potential destination. Hugo Viana, now City sporting director and the man who once convinced Porro to move to Sporting, could facilitate a reunion. With Kyle Walker rumored to be eyeing a move to Saudi Arabia, City may be in need of a high-calibre right-back, assuming the club avoids heavy sanctions for alleged financial irregularities.

A complex way forward

For Porro, donning the iconic white of Real Madrid remains a cherished ambition. However, Trent Alexander-Arnold's global profile and Daniel Levy's unyielding attitude pose towering obstacles. While Porro's skills and dreams align with Madrid's long-term plans, the realities of modern football negotiations make this a saga where resolution seems far away.

As the transfer window approaches, one question remains: can Real Madrid overcome the barriers of cost and competition to secure one of the most promising full-backs in Europe? Only time will tell.