Leny Yoro Joins Manchester United Until 2029

Leny Yoro, the French defender, signed with Manchester United from Lille until 2029 in a deal worth €62m (£52.18m) with €8m (£6.73m) in add-ons. The 18-year-old centre-back committed to a five-year contract at Old Trafford with an option for an additional year. Yoro, who debuted for Lille at 16, had links with Real Madrid, PSG and Liverpool. Last season, he played 32 league games, scored twice, and helped Lille finish fourth. He also earned a spot in the Ligue 1 team of the season.

Yoro expressed his excitement, stating, “Signing for Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honor. They have a clear development plan for me and showed great care for my family. I know the history of young players here and believe it’s the perfect place to reach my potential.” Yoro has made 44 appearances in all competitions for Lille, who reached the Europa Conference League quarter-finals. His signing follows United’s recent acquisition of forward Joshua Zirkzee, 23, from Bologna for £36.5m.

This move comes amid United’s search for a central defender, having rejected two bids for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. They are also negotiating with Bayern Munich for Dutch defender Matthijs de Ligt but will not sign both. Raphael Varane left United at the end of the season and doubts surround Victor Lindelof’s future, whose contract expires next year. Harry Maguire received bids from other Premier League clubs last summer. He chose to stay at Old Trafford and made 22 Premier League appearances.

United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth praised Leny Yoro, calling him “one of the most exciting young defenders in world football” with the potential to become a top-class centre-back. The signings reflect United’s shift towards younger, dynamic players aiming for a rejuvenated squad under new ownership. Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s vision for the club is being tested and time will reveal if these changes signify a new era for United.