Man Utd make first move to beat Chelsea to 18-year-old ‘next Saliba’

Manchester United have initiated contact with Lille and Leny Yoro over a January move, according to French media.

The Red Devils appear keen to beat the rest of Europe’s elite to one of the most exciting young defenders in the game right now. A Lille regular despite only recently turning 18, Yoro has won plenty of plaudits with his performances in Ligue 1 and Europe this season, even being compared to William Saliba.

The centre-back is the most sought-after player in Lille’s young squad, which is enjoying a great campaign despite the ostensible lack of experience. His form this term has not gone unnoticed and Chelsea have been most prominently linked with the French wonderkid.

The Blues reportedly want to make him the long-term successor to 39-year-old Thiago Silva, who appears to be on his way out of Stamford Bridge as his contract expires at the end of the season. Chelsea would be prepared to allow Lille to keep Yoro until the end of the season, similar to what they did when they signed Malo Gusto from Lyon.

PSG, however, have also been in the mix, with French media reporting that they have made it their “priority” to sign the youngster. More recently, the likes of Man Utd, Liverpool and Man City have been credited with an interest and the Red Devils and City appear to have made the first move.

United initiate contact

According to Le10Sport, City and United “have made contact” with the player and his club ahead of a potential January transfer. “The first discussions have started,” claims the French outlet.

Lille, of course, are not keen to lose one of their biggest gems so soon given that his value will only continue to rise in the future. However, they are well aware that they are in a tricky position.

Yoro’s contract is up at the end of next season, meaning that Lille will either have to agree fresh terms or sell in 2024. Unsurprisingly, the Ligue 1 side are “pushing hard” to get him to sign a new deal.