Leny Yoro makes ‘clear’ Manchester United transfer decision with two key factors outlined

Leny Yoro has reportedly all but denied a transfer to Manchester United this summer, with the 18-year-old’s two main reasons outlined.

Manchester United urgently need defensive reinforcements this summer after a season in which they conceded 81 goals across all competitions, including a record 52 in the Premier League under Erik ten Hag.

With Raphaël Varane departing and the futures of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelöf, and Jonny Evans uncertain, the club has already agreed on personal terms with Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite early in the transfer window.

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However, Branthwaite is not the only central defender that United are looking to sign in the coming months—they have also been credited with significant interest in Lille’s Leny Yoro.

The 18-year-old has been nothing short of brilliant during his debut season in Ligue 1 with the side that finished 4th in the table during the 2023/24 campaign. He has attracted interest from Liverpool, Paris St. Germain, Real Madrid, and United.

Although Madrid are penned as current favourites, it is thought that United have so far made the most concrete steps to signing him, having tabled a bid close to Lille’s asking price already this summer that was subsequently rejected.

While many see his future as yet to be determined, a new report claims that Yoro has already made a decision to sign for the Old Trafford club.

According to The Express, Yoro is apprehensive about moving to the Premier League this summer. An unnamed English club (presumably United) has ‘already lodged’ a bid, but the player made it clear he does not want the move.

The report further explains that Yoro does not want to make the move to the Premier League for two reasons. Firstly, his young age—at just 18—means he still has physical development to go through across the next few seasons, and playing in England’s top flight may not suit him.

Secondly, his sights are on Real Madrid. The report explains that members of his camp are focused on making the move to the Bernabeu happen as a priority, even though the two clubs have yet to agree on a fee.

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