Manchester United are close to finalizing a £52.1 million ($67.9m) deal for Lille defender Leny Yoro, sources have told ESPN. The 18-year-old has been granted permission to travel to Old Trafford for a medical, marking a significant step in the negotiations.
United recently secured the £35.8m ($46.7m) signing of Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. They have now overtaken Real Madrid in the race for Yoro, with the Spanish club opting not to engage in a bidding war.
Yoro initially preferred a move to Madrid but has since shifted his stance towards United. Madrid had been in constant contact with Yoro but never made a concrete offer. They were unwilling to match United’s bid, especially with Yoro available for free in 12 months.
Lille, who finished fourth in Ligue 1 and qualified for the 2024-25 Champions League third qualifying round, accepted United’s bid. Yoro is now in Manchester to discuss personal terms and complete his medical.
Yoro, a France under-21 international, is considered one of Europe’s top young defensive talents, having become a first-team regular at Lille and making his senior debut at 16.
Manchester United are targeting young talent this summer to rebuild Erik ten Hag’s squad. The club, led by Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is also pursuing Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt. This could lead to defensive departures, with United open to offers for Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Former France international Raphaël Varane has already left the club.
Yoro’s deal is expected to be finalized with a formal announcement soon. He will sign a five-year contract with an option for a further 12 months. Yoro made 41 appearances and scored three goals for Lille last season.
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