Ferdinand BEGS wonderkid to accept Man Utd transfer

Cameron Smith

• 9 Jul 2024 18:45 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has urged Lille defender Leny Yoro to join his former club this summer.

Erik ten Hag’s side are searching for multiple new centre-backs following Raphael Varane’s departure and they have identified Yoro as a key target.

The Red Devils have even seen an offer in excess of €50 million accepted by Lille, but Yoro is determined to join Real Madrid.

READ MORE: Premier League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

The France U21 international has reportedly already agreed personal terms with Los Blancos and is willing to wait until next summer, when his Lille contract expires, to seal a move to the Spanish capital.

However, Lille are eager for Yoro to accept a move to Man Utd as the Red Devils have submitted the most attractive proposal thus far.

Real Madrid are reportedly relaxed about the situation, despite Man Utd’s accepted bid, and they will only pursue a move this summer on their terms. If not, they are happy to sign Yoro on a free transfer in 2025.

READ MORE: Man Utd Transfer News Today - Branthwaite offer REJECTED, Yoro bid ACCEPTED, Ugarte 'ADVANCED'

What has Rio Ferdinand said?

Although Yoro is prioritising a transfer to Real Madrid, Ferdinand has urged him to consider an Old Trafford move this summer.

The ex-Red Devils defender told his Vibe with FIVE Podcast: “There’s an 18-year-old, I’d love him to come to Manchester United.

“If you’re watching Leny Yoro, please accept Man Utd. Man Utd please make the offer and please accept because with this kid, his ceiling is as high as anybody right now, [William] Saliba included.

“Physically, he’s not as developed [as Saliba] but he’s a different type of centre-half. He’s quick, he tries to nibble and get in front. He can play, he’s tall and mobile.”

In addition to Toro, Man Utd are also interested in signing Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. They are in advanced talks to purchase the former, but have seen two bids rejected for the latter.