Premier League outfit Manchester United has announced the signing of young defender Leny Yoro from Ligue 1 side Lille, with a contract running until 2029.
The club released an official statement confirming the signing of the 18-year-old French defender, which reads, “Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Leny Yoro has joined the club, subject to registration. The French defender has signed a contract until June 2029, with the option to extend for a further year.”
At just 18, Yoro has already made 60 appearances for Lille’s first team and was included in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season last year. His impressive performances played a key role in helping Lille secure fourth place in the league.
“Signing for a club with the stature and ambition of Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honour,” Yoro said. “Since my first conversations with the club, they set out a clear plan for how I can develop in Manchester as part of this exciting project, and showed a lot of care for me and my family.”
Yoro also expressed his excitement about joining Manchester United, noting the club’s history of developing young players. “I know about the history of young players at Manchester United and feel it can be the perfect place to reach my potential and achieve my ambitions, together with my new team-mates. I cannot wait to get started.”
Manchester United’s sporting director, Dan Ashworth, praised Yoro’s potential, stating, “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.”
Ashworth emphasized the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent, adding, “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.”
