Manchester United are on the verge of signing highly-rated French defender Leny Yoro, who is set to join the Premier League club on a five-year contract. According to reports, Yoro, previously linked with La Liga and Champions League winners Real Madrid, has agreed to travel to Manchester for a medical.
The 18-year-old defender had been holding out for a move to Real Madrid but news broke on Wednesday that he had agreed to personal terms with Manchester United. Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Yoro completed the first part of his medical, with a long-term contract now in the pipeline. United’s offer was accepted by Lille last week.
This transfer represents a significant coup for Manchester United, with only a few formalities left before the deal is officially confirmed. The announcement follows closely on the heels of United securing Bologna and Netherlands striker Joshua Zirkzee, who will provide competition up front for Rasmus Hojlund.
Yoro might not be the only defensive reinforcement arriving at Old Trafford this summer. United are also interested in Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, though they have had two bids rejected for the England international. Additionally, Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt is reportedly on their radar.
Real Madrid had shown interest in signing Yoro earlier in the transfer window but may now need to reassess their plans. According to Relevo, the Spanish and European champions do not have an alternative option to the France Under-21 international and have no immediate plans to pursue another centre-back.
Madrid faced significant defensive challenges last season, with David Alaba and Eder Militao both suffering anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Additionally, veteran club captain Nacho Fernandez has since moved to the Saudi Pro League. While Antonio Rudiger emerged as a standout performer in 2023/24, and Aurelien Tchouameni showed he can drop back into defense if needed, Madrid’s backline remains a concern.
With Yoro’s arrival, Manchester United will bolster their defense with one of France’s most promising young talents, marking a significant step in their summer transfer activities.
