Transfer News: United strengthen their defence
Manchester United's plans for the new season appear to be going well.
The Red Devils have signed French defender Leny Yoro from Lille on a contract until 2029.
The deal is valued at €62 million (£52.18m), with an additional €8 million (£6.73m) in potential add-ons.
The 18-year-old centre-back has committed to a five-year stay at Old Trafford, with an option to extend for another 12 months.
Yoro, who debuted for Lille at 16, had attracted interest from Real Madrid, Paris St-Germain, and Liverpool.
Last season, he made 32 league appearances, scored two goals, and was instrumental in helping Lille secure fourth place in Ligue 1. His performances earned him a spot in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season.
In total, Yoro played 44 matches across all competitions for Lille, reaching the quarter-finals of the Europa Conference League, where they were narrowly defeated on penalties by Aston Villa.
Yoro's signing follows Manchester United's recent acquisition of forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for £36.5 million. This comes during a summer where the club has been actively seeking to strengthen their defence.
United have made two bids for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, both of which were rejected, with Everton valuing him at over £75 million. Additionally, negotiations are reportedly ongoing with Bayern Munich for Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt.
Raphael Varane left the club at the end of the season, and there are uncertainties about the future of Sweden’s Victor Lindelof, whose contract runs out next year.
The start of a new era at Old Trafford?
Yoro's signing statement mentioned United's "clear plan" for his development and the "care" shown towards him and his family, indicating a thoughtful approach by the club.
This reflects a broader strategy. United appear to be replacing older, injury-prone, and underperforming players like Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial with younger, dynamic talents full of potential.
Premier League: Summer 2024 news and stories (eurosuperfootball.blogspot.com)
Liam, a Manchester United Season Ticket holder, told us: "This looks like it could be another great signing. He is young and has loads of potential."
This was a view supported by Olivia Taylor from Chorlton in Greater Manchester. She said: "He’s young and brimming with potential. This new era is off to a fantastic start and I can't wait for this season to start now."
