Agent Rio Ferdinand! New Man Utd signing Leny Yoro reveals key role club legend played in £52m transfer from Lille
Leny Yoro has revealed the two Manchester United centre-backs he was most inspired by, while explaining Rio Ferdinand's role in his transfer.
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Yoro swaps Lille for Man UnitedNames defenders who inspired himReveals Ferdinand's role in transferWHAT HAPPENED?
After weeks of speculation, 18-year-old Yoro swapped Lille for United in a £52 million ($68m) move. Now, the Frenchman has revealed that ex-United player Raphael Varane was an inspiration to him, as was club legend Ferdinand. Not only that, the former England international seemingly played a role in luring the teenager to Old Trafford, despite links with Real Madrid and Liverpool.
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He told the club's Instagram page when asked for his inspiration: "Let's say, Rapha Varane. He is a top defender. He didn't play a long time here [Man Utd] but he's an inspiration for me.
"United legend? Let's say Rio Ferdinand. I don't even know if I can explain this guy but he's a top defender and a really good guy. I just called him but I hope to meet him soon. Not today, but during the transfer market. He helped me a lot to make my choice, he explained how big United is, so it was really good for me."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Yoro is seen as one of the biggest prospects in the world, as highlighted by the fee United forked out to pay him – despite having just one year left on his Lille deal. He was coveted by Europe's biggest teams but the Red Devils landed his sought-after signature. This is the statement of intent they need to compete with the game's elite once more.
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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT?
With United's pre-season campaign underway, new signing Yoro will start to get used to his new surroundings, team-mates and manager Erik ten Hag's style of play. He should make his unofficial Red Devils debut during their warm-up matches before the new Premier League season starts in August.