Manchester United are on the verge of signing Lille defender Leny Yoro, making him the fifth most expensive teenager in football history.
United have agreed to a £52 million deal for the 18-year-old, beating out Real Madrid, who preferred to wait until next summer. This move signifies Manchester United's commitment to strengthening their defense, especially after a challenging season in which they conceded 58 Premier League goals, one more than they scored.
Yoro is set to fly into the UK for his medical and to finalize personal terms with United, a significant step in his young career. His arrival is expected to halt United’s interest in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, after having two offers rejected for the £70 million-rated defender.
The addition of Yoro is seen as a crucial move to address United’s defensive issues, particularly with Raphael Varane leaving earlier in the summer and Harry Maguire in the final year of his contract. The young defender, who made his debut for Lille at just 16, has already drawn comparisons to the likes of Virgil van Dijk and enjoyed a standout season in Ligue 1.
Manager Erik ten Hag is optimistic that Yoro's presence will solidify the backline and bring much-needed stability to the team's defense. The club and its supporters are eager to see how the young talent will adapt to the Premier League and contribute to United's pursuit of success in the coming seasons.
Yoro's impending transfer highlights Manchester United's strategy to invest in young talent with the potential to make a significant impact. As fans eagerly await his debut, there is a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation surrounding his arrival at Old Trafford.