Man Utd CONFIRM £52million transfer for Leny Yoro, 18, from Lille in statement signing for Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co
MANCHESTER UNITED have confirmed the signing of Lille prodigy Leny Yoro.
The centre-back, 18, completed his medical yesterday after the clubs agreed a £52million deal.
After sealing a five-year contract, Yoro said: “Signing for a club with the stature and ambition of Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honour.
“Since my first conversations with the club, they set out a clear plan for how I can develop in Manchester as part of this exciting project, and showed a lot of care for me and my family.
“I know about the history of young players at Manchester United and feel it can be the perfect place to reach my potential and achieve my ambitions, together with my new team-mates. I cannot wait to get started.”
Yoro is United‘s second signing under Sir Jim Ratcliffe after Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee arrived from Bologna for £36.5m.
He made 32 appearances for Lille last season after breaking into the first team the previous campaign.
The France Under-21s international has caught the eye of major clubs all over Europe.
Both Real Madrid and Liverpool were believed to have held a strong interest.
United sporting director Dan Ashworth added: “Leny is one of the most exciting young defenders in world football; he possesses every attribute needed to develop into a top-class centre-back.
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“Having had such an excellent start to his career we are excited to support him in reaching his immense potential here at Manchester United.
“This club has a fantastic record of developing young players, whether homegrown or brought in from elsewhere, and giving them the required guidance, time and patience to grow and flourish.
“Under Erik ten Hag and our excellent staff we will ensure that Leny has the perfect platform to achieve the success that everyone across the club is aiming for.”
Fans were delighted with the news as they flooded United’s X post confirming the signing.
One said: “He’s here and he’s perfect. Leny Yoro.”
Another added: “Let’s go Leny Yoro in the biggest club of the world.”
A third beamed: “HE’S HERE! Welcome to the Theatre of Dreams, Leny Yoro! Can’t wait to see you shine in the red of United!”
United are expected to be in the market for another centre-back if they can sell some fringe players to raise the funds.
Central midfield remains a huge priority for boss Erik ten Hag as he looks to strengthen the spine of his team.