Leny Yoro, the 18-year-old Lille centre-back, has told Manchester United that he is holding out for a move to Real Madrid this summer, according to reports in Spain. Despite United's interest in signing him, Yoro has made it clear that his preference is to join the Spanish giants.
United are keen to strengthen their defense and have already had two bids rejected for Jarrad Branthwaite, the latest of which was £45 million plus a further £5 million. They are also in talks with Bayern Munich over a deal for Matthijs de Ligt, valued at €50 million (£42 million).
However, Yoro's response to United's approach has thrown a spanner in the works. According to Marca, United made an approach for Yoro last week, but the defender is determined to join Real Madrid. The report claims that Madrid are now in advanced talks with Lille over a deal for Yoro and are confident that an agreement can be reached.
Madrid are willing to pay a €40 million (£33.7 million) fee plus add-ons for the young defender. United, meanwhile, are closing in on the signing of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee, having agreed to pay his €40 million (£33.7 million) release clause.
Yoro's decision to prioritize a move to Real Madrid over United may be a blow to the Premier League side, but they are likely to continue their pursuit of other defensive targets.
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