Manchester United have reportedly ramped up their efforts to sign 18-year-old LOSC Lille defender Leny Yoro, a target for Liverpool.
According to a report by French outlet Le 10 Sport, Leny Yoro is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils have sped up the discussions to sign the 18-year-old, a target for Liverpool. Meanwhile, LOSC Lille will demand around €90 million to part ways with the young centre-back.
Leny Yoro on the Rise
Leny Yoro has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the world in the last few years. The Frenchman went under the radar for much of his days in age-group football. But he has taken to the first-team level like a fish to water, becoming a mainstay at the back for LOSC Lille.
The 18-year-old has turned out 21 times thus far this season, chipping in with three goals. Yoro’s progress at LOSC Lille has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of many high-profile clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool. Meanwhile, Les Dogues will demand around €90 million to part ways with him.
Premier League Calling?
Manchester United’s interest in Leny Yoro stems from the uncertainties surrounding the long-term futures of Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire. Varane, in particular, will likely depart from Old Trafford this year, with an exit in the summer transfer window on the cards.
So, it behoves Manchester United to invest in a right-footed centre-back who can be Lisandro Martinez’s long-term central defensive partner. Yoro has thus emerged as a viable target for the Red Devils, who have ramped up their efforts to sign him. But Manchester United will face stiff competition from Liverpool.
The Reds also need a young centre-back for their first-team squad, with Joel Matip in the final six months of his contract. In addition, Virgil van Dijk is on the wrong side of 30, while Joe Gomez is not a dependable asset due to his sketchy fitness record. So, it behoves Liverpool to scour the market for a centre-back, with Leny Yoro being an option worth considering.
But the hefty price tag of €90 million might pose a problem for Liverpool and Manchester United. While the two Premier League heavyweights have never shied away from breaking the bank on players they believe in, they might need other investments next year. So, it will be interesting to see if they can get Lille to reduce the valuation of €90 million.
