Leny Yoro speaks out as Manchester United see transfer offer accepted

Lille defender Leny Yoro has hit back at suggestions on social media that he is not interested in a move to Manchester United.

The 18-year-old centre-half has emerged as one of the most sought-after young players in Europe with United stepping up efforts to bring him to Old Trafford.

On Tuesday, the Premier League side saw an offer of £42million accepted by Lille with United keen to sign at least two new centre-halves this summer.

It has long been suggested that Yoro’s preferred destination is Real Madrid, however. The Spanish champions hope to sign the youngster this summer, with reports in the French and Spanish press claiming in recent weeks he has his heart set on a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Real are yet to meet Lille’s asking price however – with their initial offer standing at less than half of United’s at around £17m.

Lille are thought to be pushing Yoro towards United with more money on the table but the decision will ultimately rest with the player.

On Tuesday night, an X account impersonating Yoro tweeted in response to the United development: ‘I don’t want you Manchester United. Leave me alone’.

But in response, Yoro, tweeted through his official account: ‘Fake account. You guys are psycho. Signal [report] this account.’

United are targeting three centre-halves this summer as the club seek to revamp their defensive options ahead of the new season.

The club are currently in talks with Bayern Munich over a move for Matthjis de Ligt, who is thought to be keen on the move to Manchester to reunite with his former Ajax boss Erik ten Hag. United believe they can get that deal done for around £40m.

United are also keen on Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite having seen two offers rejected for the 22-year-old.

Their second bid, in the region of £45m with £5m in add-ons, was turned away on Monday with Everton holding out for £70m.

United are expected to return with a third offer having already agreed personal terms with Branthwaite.