"They set out a clear plan for how I can develop" - Leny Yoro explains why he joined Manchester United
French teenager Leny Yoro has shared his first thoughts after completing his transfer to Manchester United from French outfit LOSC Lille. The teenage central defender has penned a five-year deal at Old Trafford, with the option to sign for an extra year.
Yoro became well-noticed across Europe after a series of quality performances for Lille in the French top flight last season. Despite his youth, the defender appeared at ease and unfazed while playing for the club as he shone beyond his years. The result was a regular starting berth in the 2023-24 season as he made 44 appearances across competitions. It resulted in interest from multiple clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.
Real Madrid led the race to sign Leny Yoro after convincing him of the plans they had for him, but they failed to strike an agreement with Lille. While this went on, Manchester United stepped in and sent in an irresistible offer for the 18-year-old, which his club accepted.
Leny Yoro underwent his medical examination in Manchester before penning his contract with the Red Devils. He told the club's media that the effort put in by Erik ten Hag's side to convince him was what made him join them.
“Since my first conversations with the club, they set out a clear plan for how I can develop as part of this exciting project, showing a lot of care for me and my family," Yoro said (via Fabrizio Romano).
“It’s incredible honour to sign for club of Man Utd stature."
Leny Yoro joined the Red Devils in a deal that could potentially rise to €70 million, nearly €50 million more than Real Madrid were willing to pay for the teenager. He will be a direct replacement for Raphael Varane, who left the club after his contract ran out at the end of June.
Manchester United have made Yoro their second summer addition after striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna. The Red Devils continue to be linked with other players, including Matthijs De Ligt and Manuel Ugarte this summer.
Manchester United announce forward's departure
Manchester United have announced the departure of forward Mason Greenwood from the club after he signed for Ligue 1 outfit Olympique Marseille. The Englishman will team up with Roberto De Zerbi in France as he looks to get his career back on track.
Greenwood hasn't played for boyhood club United since 2022, having been arrested for alleged coercive behavior and domestic violence, as well as sexual violence. The forward spent the 2023-24 season on loan at Getafe, where he registered 10 goals and six assists in 36 games across all competitions.
Greenwood joins the likes of Donny Van de Beek (Girona) and Willie Kambwala (Villarreal) in securing moves away from Old Trafford this summer. The Red Devils sold the Englishman for around £26.6 million, but retain a significant sell-on percentage in his contract with the French side.