Manchester United Persist in Pursuit of Lille’s Leny Yoro Despite Real Madrid’s Appeal
Manchester United are actively attempting to secure a deal for Lille’s prodigious centre-back Leny Yoro, even though the 18-year-old sensation is reportedly keen on joining Real Madrid.
Yoro made a significant impact during the 2022/23 season, breaking into Lille’s first team and making 44 appearances, which has drawn the attention of several top European clubs, including Real Madrid and Manchester United.
Despite Real Madrid’s keen interest, only Manchester United have submitted an official bid to Lille. United’s €63 million (£53 million) offer has been accepted by Lille, but Yoro’s preference for Real Madrid remains a significant hurdle.
French outlet L’Equipe reports that Real Madrid is the young defender’s favored destination. Furthermore, The Athletic notes that other potential suitors, including Liverpool, have withdrawn from the race after learning of Yoro’s desire to move to Madrid.
Manchester United, undeterred by Yoro’s apparent preference, continue their efforts to persuade him to consider a move to Old Trafford.
Lille’s president, Olivier Letang, has confirmed that Yoro will be sold this summer, as the player has just one year remaining on his current contract.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, may play the long game, hoping to acquire Yoro for free next summer if Lille does not lower their demands.
In a social media twist, Yoro addressed a fake account that had posted a blunt refusal of a transfer to Manchester United.
The fake profile @YoroLeny stated, “I don’t want you @ManUtd. Leave me alone,” to which Yoro responded, “Fake account. You guys are psycho. Signal this account.”
As United continue their search for defensive reinforcements, they have also initiated talks with Bayern Munich over a potential deal for Matthijs de Ligt.
The club’s strategy appears to be to sign either Yoro or de Ligt, rather than both. This pursuit comes on the heels of United’s recent acquisition of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, highlighting their continued efforts to bolster the squad ahead of the new season.
Manchester United Persist in Pursuit of Lille’s Leny Yoro Despite Real Madrid’s Appeal