The British media outlet The Athletic has revealed how Manchester United managed to beat Real Madrid in signing Yaro. The method was straightforward: wave a chequebook, demonstrating what it means to be extravagantly wealthy, spend money like water, and spare no expense.
Recently, a plane carrying Lenny Yaro landed in Manchester from Brussels. The 18-year-old defender chose to join Manchester United over the reigning European champions, Real Madrid. After a protracted battle for his signature that lasted several weeks, Manchester United emerged victorious over Real Madrid, securing this prodigy. Yaro’s transfer fee reached £52 million (€62 million), potentially rising to £59 million with add-ons.
According to insiders, just days ago, all signs pointed to Real Madrid being Yaro’s next destination, as they had secured the support of the player’s agent, Mendes, and the player himself preferred a move to the Bernabéu. At the time, it seemed that Real Madrid would complete the transfer, especially given the serious injury to Alaba (expected to return in November), with Yaro, a rising talent, seen as the solution for Ancelotti.
However, Real Madrid’s offer stood at around €25 million, increasing to €30 million with add-ons. Lille sought a higher transfer fee, but Real Madrid set a clear limit on their offer, causing negotiations to stall. The Bernabéu hierarchy believed that the player’s desire to join the Champions League winners would force Lille into concessions, considering Yaro’s contract was due to expire in 2025.
Upon learning about the situation, Manchester United made an offer more than double that of Real Madrid, which thoroughly impressed Lille. It is understood that this signing was led by Manchester United shareholder INEOS, with Rio Ferdinand sent as a persuader. With the help of the super-high offer, Lille firmly rejected Real Madrid and exerted pressure on the player and his agent, aiding Manchester United in winning the battle for his signature.
The media also disclosed that during the battle, Real Madrid threatened Lille, stating that if they did not accept the offer, Real Madrid would attempt to convince the player to reject a transfer this summer and then join the Bernabéu for free when his contract expired in 2025 – much like Real Madrid’s pursuit of Mbappé, leaving Lille empty-handed. However, ultimately, considering the real risks involved in waiting a year, Yaro joined Manchester United.
This marks another continental-level young player acquired by Manchester United this summer following the £38.5 million signing of Dutch international Zirkzee, with British media suggesting it will accelerate the club’s summer rebuild and reinforce its long-term strategy.