Leny Yoro confirms one reason why he joined Manchester United over Real Madrid

Leny Yoro has confirmed one of the reported reasons why he decided to join Manchester United over waiting for Real Madrid.

Yoro was confirmed as United’s second signing of the summer on Thursday evening, after securing Joshua Zirkzee last weekend.

Reports have claimed that the deal will be an initial £52 million, with the potential for another £6.7 million paid in add-ons.

A statement from the club read: “Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Leny Yoro has joined the club, subject to registration. The French defender has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year.

At the age of just 18, Yoro has already played 60 first-team games for Lille OSC. Last season, he was named in the Ligue 1 team of the season having helped his club finish fourth in the league. 

Various reports have stated various reasons for the move. Spanish outlets have expectedly claimed that Yoro was essentially forced into the deal by Lille as they looked to protect Real Madrid.

According to Ben Jacobs, the teenager appreciated how hands-on United had been in their pitch to him and his team. This included a quick agreement on a fee with Lille and details on how he would fit in at the club.

Speaking to United media after his announcement, Yoro confirmed that this was a big selling point for him when choosing to join the club.

“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.”

He added: “Signing for a club with the stature and ambition of Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honour.

“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 will travel with the club to the United States and is expected to make his unofficial debut against Arsenal.

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