Manchester United are having a busy transfer market. The club is trying their best to improve the squad and bounce back hard in the 2024/25 season. In the 2023/24 season, United finished on 8th position in Premier League; their lowest since 1989/90 season. INEOS were not impressed with Erik Ten Hag at all. However the win against Manchester City in FA Cup final has earned the Dutch manager a contract extension. Ten Hag is focused on improving the squad by both buying new players and selling existing player. United have been looking players for various positions. One of it is central defender as the club was significantly weak in defence last season. United have been linked with Matthijs De Ligt, Leny Yoro and Jarrad Branthwaite. Two out of these three names may arrive to Old Trafford this summer.
The Red Devils conceded 58 goals in the league last season. In contrast they only scores 57 and finished the season with negative goal difference. The club spotted the problem and took some crucial decisions. United have let Raphael Varane leave as a free agent after his contract expired at the end of 2023/24 season. Harry Maguire has his future uncertain while Jonny Evans has awarded with contract extension. However, the backline is not strong and hence atleast two defenders are required.
Matthijs De Ligt is extremely close to join United. United may not be able to sign Jarrad Branthwaite due to their limited budget. Firstly the Red Devils offered £35 million which Everton rejected in no time. Later, £50 million offer was also tabled by Ten Hag’s side. However, Everton are willing to part ways with Branthwaite only if United trigger his £70 million release clause.
United shift their focus to Leny Yoro
The Red Devils have now shifted their focus to Leny Yoro. They have even submitted a bid of €50 million to Lille. Manchester Evening News claimed that the bid is accepted by Lille. However its reported that the defender wants to join Real Madrid. Madrid are unwilling to pay the demanded fee by Lille. In addition, its reported that the Los Blancos gave Lille two options; one to sell him on discount or lose him for free next season. This gives United lead in the race as he French club appreciates their offer more. However, the Red Devils still need to convince Yoro as his heart is set to join United.
An account impersonating Leny Yoro, tweeted ‘I don’t want to Man United. Leave me alone’. Leny Yoro in response tweeted that this is fake account and report this. This hints that the 18 year old has still not made his mind up on wheter which club he should join.
Florian Plettenberg tweeted recently that Yoro has still not made a decision. In addition he said Man United and Real Madrid are the only clubs interested in 18 year old defender. Yoro’s decision will prove to be a big factor in his potential move.
Rene Meulensteen surprised by United’s decision
Leny Yoro could be third signing of United this summer while De Ligt could be second. Joshua Zirkzee is United’s first signing and the striker already had his medical test done. However the Dutch striker’s arrival has been a surprise for former United’s assistant coach Rene Meulensteen. The former coach said Zirkzee is tall, strong and very skillful, however he doesn’t have much experience. Due to this signing, United will have two inexperienced strikers (Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee), ans hence they will take time to adapt. Hence, Meulensteen thinks that United should have gone after more experienced striker.
