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Man Utd prioritising deal for Leny Yoro despite Matthijs de Ligt interest

Manchester United are likely to sign only one central defender during the summer transfer window, according to The Athletic.

The Red Devils have already agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich star Matthijs de Ligt, but they are yet to make a concrete proposal to land his signature.

It is now revealed that Lille wonderkid Yoro is the top priority for the Mancunian giants and they are waiting for a final decision from the teenager.

United have finalised a package of £42 million plus £10m in add-ons with Lille for the 18-year-old, but Yoro is presently waiting for Real Madrid, who are his dream club.

Los Blancos have yet to make an offer close to United’s proposal and Lille are said to favour doing business with the Red Devils in the coming days.

As things stand, United are exploring whether the Frenchman can be convinced to join them.

If Yoro opts against the move, it is claimed that a deal for De Ligt could be straightforward.

United’s preference for Yoro is justifiable

United manager Erik ten Hag previously managed De Ligt at Ajax for two-and-a-half seasons.

The Dutchman thrived under him as a teenager, but he has not managed to find the same consistency during his time with Juventus and Bayern.

De Ligt remains a quality centre-back with strong passing attributes. He would be a good signing for the Red Devils as a successor to Raphael Varane.

Despite this, we are not surprised that United prefer to sign Yoro over him this summer. The Frenchman has a much higher ceiling. He is six years younger than De Ligt.

Yoro is likewise a solid ball-playing centre-back. He has also impressed with his aerial presence, ball recoveries and ability to clear his lines with relatively good effect.

The youngster is set to cost £10m more than De Ligt, but it appears worthwhile for his age and immense potential. United will be hoping to win the race for his signature.

Yoro, who has been described as ‘very ambitious‘ by manager Paulo Fonseca, has entered the last year of his contract at Les Dogues.

He is most likely to choose his next destination soon such that Lille can find a suitable replacement.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com