Manchester United Beats Real Madrid to Secure Leny Yoro from Lille

Real Madrid Miss Out on Top Defensive Talent Leny Yoro

Manchester United are on the brink of signing Lille’s young defender Leny Yoro for a substantial £52.1 million ($67.9m).

Yoro who is just 18 years old has been granted permission to travel to Old Trafford for a medical marking a significant step towards finalizing the transfer.

Real Madrid who were also interested in Yoro opted against engaging in a bidding war with United choosing instead to wait until the player became a free agent in 2025.

Real Madrid had been in consistent contact with Yoro viewing him as a priority to bolster their defense.

But they were clear about not exceeding their valuation of €20-25 million this summer. Despite Yoro’s initial preference for Madrid United’s persistent efforts have now positioned them to secure his signature.

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United’s Youth-Driven Transfer Strategy

The acquisition of Leny Yoro aligns with Manchester United’s current transfer strategy which focuses on young talents with high potential.

Earlier this week United completed the signing of Netherlands forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £35.8 million ($46.7m). The club’s new football board led by Ineos owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe aims to rebuild Erik ten Hag’s squad with players who can both enhance the team’s performance and increase in value.

Yoro’s impending arrival comes as part of a broader defensive revamp at Old Trafford. The club is prepared to entertain offers for current defenders Victor Lindelöf, Harry Maguire, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Meanwhile, former France international Raphaël Varane has already left the club following the expiry of his contract last month.

Yoro who made his senior debut for Lille at just 16 is viewed as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders and is expected to make a significant impact at United.