Manchester United defender Leny Yoro is attracting interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal amid his desire to leave the Red Devils, according to Caught Offside.
The Frenchman was one of the most sought-after central defenders during his time at Lille. He was widely touted to move to Real Madrid at one stage before Man United brought him to Old Trafford.
His time at the Red Devils has been a frustrating one, and he is currently a regular substitute with Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez being the regular central defensive picks under manager Michael Carrick.
United are also looking to add another top-quality centre-back to their ranks in Como’s Jacobo Ramon, and Caught Offside claim that Loro is prepared to consider the prospect of leaving the Mancunian giants.
Paris Saint-Germain continue to remain admirers of the French talent, while the Gunners could also be a serious option to watch out for despite spending big on another central defender in Ezri Konsa this summer.
Unlikely deal
The Gunners suffered a big setback during the World Cup with William Saliba sustaining a back injury. His injury blow contributed to the club’s decision to land Konsa from Aston Villa to shore up the right centre-back position.
Alongside Konsa, manager Mikel Arteta has the likes of Cristhian Mosquera, Marli Salmon, Jurrien Timber and Ben White, who can all operate in the right central defensive role. Hence, it is the last position they would want to strengthen.
Saliba has returned to individual training recently and seems determined to return to action as early as next month. In our view, the Yoro speculation could be agent-driven rather than Arsenal contemplating an approach for the 20-year-old.
Yoro arrived at United from Lille for an overall package of £59 million including add-ons. United viewed Yoro as a big market opportunity at the time, but the youngster has failed to adapt to the physicality and intensity of the Premier League.
He has been culpable of positional defensive errors and one of those came during the recent 3-2 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup third round, which remains his only start of the campaign for the Manchester club.
Yoro finds himself playing second fiddle behind Maguire and things may not improve with United eyeing Ramon. On top of this, United anticipate Matthijs de Ligt to return from a long-term back injury this month to add competition for places.
Hence, Yoro’s desire to move on is justifiable, but Arsenal may not make an approach for him.
