In their search for a successor to central defender Raphael Varane, Manchester United have found what they are looking for in Lille. The Red Devils are digging deep into their pockets for 18-year-old talent Leny Yoro – and are doing some convincing
As Marca and The Athletic, among others, have written in recent weeks, almost everything pointed to Leny Yoro joining the ranks of numerous coveted teenagers who would eventually end up at Spanish record champions Real Madrid. In the case of the 18-year-old central defender, however, things are now surprisingly different – to the delight of Manchester United, who have signed the player to a five-year contract until 2029 plus an option for a further year.
Teenager becomes a regular at Lille
While the madridistas had probably insisted on a free transfer next summer, the Red Devils have intensified their efforts to sign the Frenchman in recent days and reached an agreement with Lille OSC, whose youth department the Frenchman joined in 2017. According to The Athletic, Manchester will initially transfer 62 million euros to Lille, with bonuses potentially adding a further eight million.
“To sign for such an ambitious club like Manchester United so early in my career is a huge honor,” the youngster said in a club statement. “They have shown me a clear plan for my development and have put a lot of effort into me. I believe this can be just the place to reach my potential and fulfill my ambitions.”
United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth is full of praise for the new signing. “Leny is one of the most exciting young defenders in world soccer. He has everything it takes to turn himself into a top central defender. “
Successor to Varane?
In Manchester, the youngster is expected to succeed compatriot Raphael Varane, who has gone his separate ways with Man United since the end of his contract this summer. Yoro has already made 46 appearances in League 1 at the age of 18 (two goals) and only played five league games last season without going the full distance. In the Conference League, he didn’t miss a minute in the quarter-final duels with Aston Villa, among others.
At 1.90 meters, the right-footer is not only a strong header and tackler, but also impressed in his home country with a passing rate of over 90 percent. United coach Erik ten Hag now has another central defender at his disposal alongside Lisandro Martinez, who plays on the left side of the back four, to contribute to the build-up play.
What does the Yoro transfer mean for de Ligt?
A reunion between ten Hags and Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt, whom the Dutchman knows well from his time in Amsterdam, will not take place – at least for the time being. According to reports, the 24-year-old can well imagine a move to Manchester, but will now have to be patient.
According to reports from England, the Red Devils are toying with the idea of strengthening their central defense, but will first have to generate income through sales. In addition to de Ligt, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite is also said to be on United’s list
