Manchester United’s second signing of the window is finally, officially, in the bag as Leny Yoro has been secured from LOSC Lille.
A deal that had, at one point, failure written all over it due to the Leny Yoro’s preference for Real Madrid has instead proved to be the biggest statement by Ineos so far.
The 18-year-old center-back joins on an initial five-year deal, with an option to extend it for another year, as is customary at United.
With the reported fee being close to €70 million, he is expected to be thrown straight into the deep end in the first team.
Yoro is now set to travel with the club for their pre-season tour of the USA. Upon official unveiling, Dan Ashworth has revealed his thoughts on the move, and what makes the teenager such an exciting talent.
Dan Ashworth reveals thoughts on Leny Yoro’s transfer
Upon the official announcement of his signing, United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth has waxed lyrical about Yoro, talking about the reason why United were so intent on signing him.
It is worth noting that knowing Yoro’s preference for moving to Spain, other clubs, like Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool, had walked away from the deal.
However, United remained confident in their ability to swing the deal in their favour, a factor which undoubtedly would have worked in their favour.
Ashworth revealed the key reason why United were relentless in their pursuit on the club website.
He said: “Leny is one of the most exciting young defenders in world football; he possesses every attribute needed to develop into a top-class centre-back. Having had such an excellent start to his career, we are excited to support him in reaching his immense potential here at Manchester United.
“This club has a fantastic record of developing young players, whether homegrown or brought in from elsewhere, and giving them the required guidance, time and patience to grow and flourish. Under Erik ten Hag and our excellent staff we will ensure that Leny has the perfect platform to achieve the success that everyone across the club is aiming for.”
Of course, Yoro has often been described as a generational talent, as assessment which Ashworth seems to fully agree with.
Yoro’s ideal fit
Aside from praising his attributes, Ashworth’s second part of the statement is especially notable. That is because Ineos are clearly making a concerted effort to freshen up the team with young players.
Be it from the academy or buying players like Joshua Zirkzee, there is a plan to create a youthful core that can grow together and reach their potential.
Despite being just 18, Yoro comes with a full season of experience in Ligue 1 where he was a key player for Lille.
The hope will be that along with other youngsters at the club, Yoro forms the spine of the next great United squad.
The potential is there, United have given the trust, and now it is up to the player to repay it.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/pPOqgIh