Lille’s Leny Yoro is on the verge of signing a five-year deal with Premier League giants Manchester United and he has been described as a big upgrade for the future, Soccernet.football reports.
Yoro was previously believed to be aiming for a transfer to La Liga and Champions League winners Real Madrid. However, news broke on Wednesday that he had agreed to travel to Manchester for a medical examination.
Lille accepted United’s offer last week, and the 18-year-old has reportedly agreed to personal terms after completing the first part of his medical, according to Fabrizio Romano, with a long-term contract in the works.
This is a significant acquisition for United, with only a few tests remaining before official confirmation. The news follows the club’s recent announcement of signing Bologna and Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee to increase competition for Rasmus Hojlund up front.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, French football expert Jonathan Johnson had this to say about the move; “Yoro is a very complete defender for someone so young. Watching him in the flesh, he’s very, very impressive. He’s imposing, he’s good on the ball, he can use his frame to his advantage.
“He really does play like a veteran, the maturity he has is hugely impressive and he reads the game very well. He has a very complete profile and is arguably the best young defensive talent in Europe.
“This is a big upgrade for Manchester United in terms of building for the future. This could be one of the best transfer deals of the summer.”
Yoro might not be the only center-back joining Old Trafford this summer. United, who may need to sell other squad members to finance another move, have identified Jarrad Branthwaite as a target and have had two bids rejected for the England international. Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt is also on their radar.
Los Blancos were interested in signing Yoro earlier in the transfer window but might now reconsider their strategy. According to Relevo, the Spanish and European champions have no alternative to the France Under-21 international and do not plan to pursue another center-back.
Madrid struggled with injuries in this position last season. David Alaba and Eder Militao both suffered anterior cruciate ligament injuries and were sidelined for extended periods. Additionally, veteran club captain Nacho Fernandez has since left to join the Saudi Pro League.