Romano says INEOS could prove crucial in United’s pursuit of sought-after defender who is ‘one of the best talents’

Manchester United have added their name to the host of clubs interested in signing Lille’s Leny Yoro. 

The 18-year-old has quickly become one of the most sought-after prospects in Europe after cementing his place in the French side’s senior squad, and he’s played a crucial role in the backline as they’ve kept 13 clean sheets across his 20 starts so far this season.

With a January move ruled out by his club, the Reds could be one of several potential suitors that table a bid in the summer to test Lille’s resolve for Yoro, whose contract expires in 2025.

Keen to bolster his defence with fresh talent, Erik ten Hag may press new part-owners INEOS to make a player like Yoro one of their statement signings after Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% stake is ratified.

Romano on Yoro’s potential suitors

The Under-21 France international will seemingly have the pick of the bunch if he decides to take on a new venture at the end of the campaign, as Fabrizio Romano has detailed just how many teams are hanging on his every move.

“Leny Yoro could be a name to watch for the summer,” the transfer expert told CaughtOffside. “The talented young Lille centre-back is now represented by Jorge Mendes, one of the best agents in the world. And Yoro is really one of the best talents in the world, he really is a fantastic centre-back.

“For Lille, the idea is to keep the player until the end of the season, because they feel in the summer there is going to be a big fight between top clubs to sign Yoro. Real Madrid have been in attendance multiple times to watch Yoro – they really like this boy, so let’s see if they will be in the race this summer.

“For sure they are scouting the player, and also the new people in charge at Manchester United, with INEOS having an excellent relationship with Jorge Mendes.

“PSG also know Yoro very well as he’s playing in Ligue 1 – since last summer they’ve been following him, so they are there too.

“It could be a big fight for Yoro, that’s what’s expected, and Lille want crazy money, but his contract expires in 2025 so it looks like one to watch.”