Manchester United make contact with Lille over Lenny Yoro

Manchester United are currently looking for a new centre-back. Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite has been a top target for the management but they are yet to agree a deal with the Toffees. The Merseyside outfit are currently asking £70m for the centre-back, with United unwilling to pay more than £43m.

Sheth now claims the Red Devils have made initial contact with Lille over Yoro. With Everton refusing to reduce Branthwaite’s asking price, he is one of a number of alternatives being considered by the club.

Lots of talents

Manchester United are currently focused on signing emerging talent rather than established stars. They had decided to agree a deal with Everton for Branthwaite but the Toffees refused compensation despite their financial difficulties.

If there is no breakthrough in talks in the coming days, United could quickly turn their attention to Yoro, one of the most popular young defenders in Europe. The 18-year-old recently enjoyed a brilliant breakthrough season with Lille.

The teenager’s passing ability is excellent, completing 92% of his passes in Ligue 1. and 3 clearances.

Lille are prepared to sell him for around £42m. Yoro’s current contract expires at the end of next season, but he’s still a good deal given his age maturity and potential to become an elite star.

Manchester United are not the only club pursuing the talented talent, with Liverpool and Real Madrid both admirers. Manchester United appear to be the most willing to pay the fee and could tempt him by guaranteeing him regular first-team football.

With Raphael Varane leaving on a free transfer next month, Yoro is likely to be handed a starting role under head coach Erik ten Hag, who is no stranger to playing emerging talent in the backline. He did that a lot at Ajax.