Why Leny Yoro Snubbed Real Madrid for Manchester United
Manchester United have pulled off a major coup by signing highly-rated French defender Leny Yoro from Lille, and the 18-year-old has revealed why he chose Old Trafford over Real Madrid.
Just days ago, Yoro was reportedly on the verge of joining the Spanish giants, with his representatives holding talks with the club. However, United’s persistence and attractive offer proved too good to turn down, with the Red Devils agreeing a fee of £52 million ($65m; €62m) with a further €8m euros (£6.73m) in potential add-ons.
Yoro has signed a five-year deal with United, with the option of a further year, and has expressed his excitement about joining the club. "Since my first conversations with the club, they set out a clear plan for how I can develop as part of this exciting project, showing a lot of care for me and my family," he said. "It’s an incredible honour to sign for a club of United’s stature."
But what really swayed Yoro’s decision was United’s commitment to his development. According to The Athletic, former United players including Rio Ferdinand were deployed to convince Yoro that United was the best destination for his growth, and the club’s contract offer reportedly came with better terms than Madrid’s.
Real Madrid’s offer to Lille was worth less than half of United’s, and had Yoro stayed put in France, he would have likely signed with Madrid on a free transfer next summer when his contract was due to expire.
United’s signing of Yoro is a major coup for the club, and it’s clear that they have won the battle for his signature. The French defender is regarded as a ‘generational talent’, and his arrival at Old Trafford is a huge boost for the club’s chances of success in the future.
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