Manchester United have initiated efforts to recruit Leny Yoro, according to recent reports. The young Lille centre-back, who has had an outstanding breakout season in Ligue 1 and earned Team of the Season honors, is one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe. With his contract set to expire next year, Lille’s president, Olivier Letang, confirmed last week that the 18-year-old will be allowed to leave this summer.
The primary question now is where Yoro will end up. Despite widespread interest from multiple clubs for weeks and even months, securing his transfer has proven challenging. Yoro has expressed a strong desire to join Real Madrid. However, Real Madrid has yet to make a decisive move, as they are hesitant to engage in a bidding war and might wait to persuade Yoro to see out his contract instead.
Manchester United’s interest in Yoro has become more concrete. Liverpool has been closely linked with the youngster, but according to Fabrizio Romano, Yoro will only consider Liverpool if Real Madrid does not pursue him. Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester United are also in the running. Romano noted that until recently, Manchester United had only registered their interest without making any substantial moves.
This situation appears to have changed. Sky Sports reports that Manchester United has now formally contacted Yoro’s representatives, marking their first definitive step towards acquiring the wonderkid. This shift in approach might be due to the realization that Everton is unlikely to lower their steep €80+ million valuation of top target Jarrad Branthwaite. Additionally, Manchester United’s hopes of signing Jean-Clair Todibo have been thwarted by UEFA, which has prohibited them from conducting business with Nice, a sister club.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is eager to secure two major signings before the start of the pre-season. However, it remains uncertain whether Manchester United will succeed in convincing Yoro to turn down Real Madrid and join their ranks instead.