Leny Yoro: Bizarre swap deal involving Barcelona star proposed to United | OneFootball

Manchester United are considering signing a centre-back as well as a left-back, and Leny Yoro’s future might influence both plans.

In 2024, United overtook Europe’s biggest clubs to land Yoro following his stellar campaign at Lille. The highly regarded Frenchman, dubbed the Kylian Mbappé of defenders, was being chased by the likes of Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

The Red Devils decisively agreed a deal worth £58.9 million, including add-ons, for the then-teenage centre-back, who arrived at Old Trafford amid much fanfare. Nearly two years later, it is not far-fetched to say that Yoro has not managed to live up to the hype. 

Manchester United keen to sign experienced defender

According to Attacking Football journalist Paddy Keogh, the defensive situation at Manchester United has shifted from a “nice to have” luxury to a major worry.

Leny Yoro, 20, regularly gets bullied by the Premier League’s robust forwards, and with the ball at his feet, the France U21 international often appears devoid of progressive ideas.

Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martínez’s persistent injuries have only exacerbated the situation at the back, setting off a search for “an established leader who can step in immediately.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s Micky van de Ven and Nottingham Forest central defender Murillo are thought to be under consideration.

Leny Yoro’s name mentioned in potential swap deal involving Barcelona gem

Ideally, United would also like to add a left-back to their ranks ahead of next season, and this is where Yoro could help the Mancunians. 

Keogh claims Barcelona speedster Alejandro Balde has emerged as the “dream” signing for United, with super agent Jorge Mendes “pushing” this pursuit.

It is surprisingly added that Mendes is even floating “a bizarre swap deal involving Leny Yoro.” It was the Portuguese agent who played an influential role in United beating Real Madrid to the Lille prodigy’s signature in 2024.

Barcelona are in need of a new defender, and the 6’3″ United star certainly has the potential to be a success in Spain. However, Barca need the cash.

“It wouldn’t surprise me if his name was brought up in discussions for Marcus Rashford,” the journalist further stated. 

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images

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