Manchester United have reportedly hit a significant milestone in their pursuit of a centre-back this summer after Lille accepted their bid for highly-rated defender Leny Yoro today.
The Red Devils are one of the many clubs desperate to land Yoro, and they have made their intention to the player clear by submitting a €50m bid for the player who is always wanted by Real Madrid and fellow Premier League side Liverpool.
According to reports, Lille has given their green light to the deal by accepting United’s formal bid. However, the player is not interested in the deal as he is waiting for a formal approach from Real Madrid, his favourite destination if he leaves Lille this summer.
But Madrid have not officially submitted a bid yet, as they consider the defender’s desire to join them an indication that they will have their man regardless of what other clubs do. Per the reports, Carlo Ancelotti’s side only wants to sign Yoro on their own terms and are willing to wait until next summer if need be, as the 18-year-old will be a free agent by the summer of 2025.
Meanwhile, Lille are insisting that Yoro should accept Manchester United’s offer as it’s the best proposal on their table.
As such, the ball is now in the player’s court, and the situation could get messy and linger all summer if Lille refuse to do business with Madrid and the player refuses to join Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.
What Top Six Football Thinks
Leny Yoro is undoubtedly one of the best young centre-backs currently in the market. At 18, he has a high ceiling and could establish himself as one of the best defenders in the game in the next decade.
Manchester United getting him for less than £45 million will be a big coup as their other target Jarrad Branthwaite, is priced at over £70m by Everton.
