Real Madrid have reportedly stepped up their interest in Valencia defender Yarek Gasiorowski.

The 20-year-old has made 18 appearances for Los Che during the 2024-25 campaign, including 14 outings in La Liga, and he is viewed as one of the most talented young defenders in Spanish football.

Gasiorowski recently extended his contract at Mestalla, with his terms running until June 2027, but there is currently widespread speculation surrounding his future.

Barcelona have been credited with an interest in the centre-back, but according to Fichajes, Real Madrid are also firmly in the running for the ex-Spain Under-19s international.

The report claims that Gasiorowski is viewed as a cheaper alternative to Arsenal's William Saliba, as the France international could cost upwards of £80m this summer, which is an unrealistic deal for the reigning Spanish and European champions.

Real Madrid 'set their sights' on Valencia defender Gasiorowski

Senior Real Madrid figures, including club president Florentino Perez, allegedly believe that Gasiorowski could be an investment for the future and fit perfectly into their sporting project.

Valencia's position would be weakened if Los Che were relegated from La Liga this season, and it is believed that an offer of around €20m (£17m) would be considered by the division strugglers.

Gasiorowski has been with Valencia since 2012, progressing through the various age groups at the club before making his first-team debut in 2023, and he has represented Los Che on 34 occasions.

What is Real Madrid's centre-back situation?

Eder Militao is currently on the sidelines with another serious knee problem, and it will take some time for the centre-back to return to his best considering that he has had two similar injuries in relatively quick succession.

David Alaba is back from a long-term knee injury of his own, but the Austria international is 32 and not a long-term option, while Antonio Rudiger is also 32, so it is not difficult to understand why Real Madrid want to bring in a young centre-back.

Raul Asencio has been one of the success stories of the season, with the 22-year-old breaking into the first team and proving to be a dependable performer, and he should soon sign a new long-term contract.

Real Madrid need to invest in a new centre-back this summer, though, and Gasiorowski could be a bargain considering his potential, with the Spaniard already demonstrating that he can perform in the top flight of Spanish football.