Manchester United defender rejects offer to extend contract that runs until 2025 amid interest from Spain and France: Reports
Manchester United youngster Willy Kambwala has reportedly turned down a contract extension offer with just a year left on his contract. The 19-year-old French-Congolese defender debuted for Erik ten Hag's senior team last December.
Sport1 journalist Christopher Michel reports that Kambwala has snubbed an extension offer from the Red Devils. He's received inquiries from the MLS, France, the Bundesliga, and Spain.
Kambwala made his debut in a 2-0 loss against West Ham United on December 23 last year. He appeared nine more times across competitions amid an injury crisis that plagued Erik ten Hag's defense.
Ten Hag showered praise on Kambwala after his display in a 2-2 draw against Liverpool in April. The Dutch coach told BBC Sport:
"[Kambwala] has been training a while with us and progressing well. The next generation need to step in and he is doing brilliant. The challenge for him is doing it consistently."
The France U20 international joined Manchester United's youth system from French outfit FC Sochaux's academy in October 2020. He was highly rated while playing for the Red Devils at U18 and U21 levels.
However, Kambwala's first-team opportunities could be in major doubt next season amid an overhaul ensuing at Old Trafford. Bayern Munich's Matthijs de Ligt and Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite have been linked with moves to Ten Hag's side.
Manchester United could replace Willy Kambwala with Real Madrid target Leny Yoro
Manchester United's defensive rebuild doesn't stop there, as they are also in the race to sign LOSC Lille gem Leny Yoro. The 18-year-old French centre-back is one of Europe's most coveted talents.
Sky Sports reports that the Red Devils have agreed on a €50 million (£42.26 million) deal with Lille for Yoro. He's been prioritizing a move to Real Madrid, his dream club, but the La Liga giants have yet to meet his price tag.
Yoro put several European heavyweights on notice with a stellar 2023-24 campaign at the Decathalon Arena. He appeared 44 times across competitions, helping his side keep 20 clean sheets.
Manchester United are trying to leapfrog Madrid in pursuit of Yoro, who is increasingly likely to leave Lille. Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in one of Europe's most exciting prospects.
Yoro would arguably come into Ten Hag's side as a starter, but two defenders are expected to join the Red Devils this summer. The club's new owners, INEOS, have made a statement of intent by pursuing three centre-backs simultaneously.