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Former Manchester United centre-back Rio Ferdinand has made a public appeal to Real Madrid target Leny Yoro to consider joining the Red Devils. The 18-year-old defender is the subject of a transfer battle between top European clubs.
Yoro graduated from Ligue 1 outfit Lille's academy, making his senior debut for the club at age 16 in May 2022. He truly broke out in the 2023-24 campaign, showcasing himself as one of Europe's best young centre-back prospects.
The Frenchman helped his side keep 20 clean sheets in 44 appearances across competitions. His impressive season led to rumours linking him with moves to top European clubs like Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and United.
Speaking about Yoro on the Rio Ferdinand presents FIVE YouTube channel. Ferdinand said that he would love for the youngster to make the move to Old Trafford. He compared the Lille defender's potential with Arsenal superstar William Saliba but noted that he lacks the physical presence at the moment:
"I’d love for him (Yoro) to go to Manchester United. If you’re looking, Leny Yoro, please accept (the offer) from Manchester United. Man United please make the offer.
"I think this kid's ceiling is as high as anybody right now, including (William) Saliba. Physically, he’s not as developed and formidable, but he’s a different type of centre-back. He’s quick. He tries to nibble and get in front (of the attacker). He can play long, tall, mobile."
Manchester United in fray for Leny Yoro and Matthijs de Ligt
Manchester United are pursuing a move for Lille defender Leny Yoro, and are also in talks to sign Bayern Munich centre-back Matthijs de Ligt. According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, the centre-back duo are on top of United's priority list.
Raphael Varane has left Old Trafford, while Victor Lindelof and Harry Maguire's futures are up in the air. Hence, the Red Devils are actively scouting for a centre-back this summer.
According to Ornstein, Real Madrid are still the favourites to sign Yoro. However, they are willing to offer only half (£17 million) of what Lille are demanding (£34 million) for their prized asset. United, Liverpool and PSG are still said to be waiting in the wings, should the Frenchman's move to the Bernabeu fall apart.
While they await Yoro's decision, Manchester United are also considering De Ligt as an option. The Dutchman has fallen out of favour at the Allianz Arena and is looking for a change of scenery to get his career back on track.
Yoro and De Ligt have respective market values of €50 million and €65 million (via TransferMarkt). Therefore, United will have to be decisive and shrewd while choosing a long-term partner for their defensive stalwart Lisandro Martinez.
