Leny Yoro, has emerged as one of the season’s standout revelations. The Franco-Ivorian talent has not only secured a significant role in Lille’s squad but has also captured the attention of European football powerhouses, with Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid expressing keen interest in his services.
Lille’s recent triumph over Reims (0-1) on Saturday, March 2, during the 24th day of Ligue 1 showcased not only the team’s success but also the prowess of Leny Yoro.
The young defender, with 29 appearances, including 28 starts, stands as the second-most utilized player under coach Paulo Fonseca, illustrating his pivotal role within the squad.
Notably, Yoro is the sole LOSC player to have featured in every match in 2024, a testament to his consistency and reliability.
Paulo Fonseca, speaking to Transfer Room, expressed his admiration for Yoro’s exceptional maturity and technical acumen.
“It’s not normal to have an 18-year-old player like Leny (Yoro), with this maturity and the technical qualities he has. He will be one of the best central defenders in France and probably in Europe.
He is very balanced, and there is no doubt that he will be a very great player,” remarked Fonseca.
Lille midfielder Angel Gomes echoes Fonseca’s sentiments, praising Yoro’s temperament and the remarkable progress he has showcased since arriving at the club. Gomes stated, “As soon as he arrived in the group, I understood that he was going to reach the heights
. When I discovered the pros at the age of 16 at Manchester United, I understood that it was different. He already had the right temperament. And that’s not normal for a 16 or 17-year-old player arriving.
It’s like he’s already an experienced player.”
Leny Yoro’s style of play, marked by exceptional reading of the game, calmness, and technical accuracy, draws comparisons to Liverpool’s defensive stalwart Virgil Van Dijk.
Standing at an imposing height of 1.90 meters, Yoro is a formidable force in aerial duels, contributing three goals in various competitions, including the Europa Conference League.
As the summer transfer window approaches, a fierce battle ensues for Yoro’s signature, with PSG and Real Madrid emerging as the primary contenders.
His contract with LOSC expires in June 2025, and despite a reported extension proposal, Yoro has yet to commit to an additional year.
Valued at 25 million euros on the Transfemarket website, Yoro’s potential departure from Lille could spark a bidding war given the strong interest from top European clubs.
Goodbye 2023, you’ve been full of surprises ✨
In 2024, let’s continue to grow 📈#GodDidCrédit :
🎬 @KickOffProd x @lameuteagency pic.twitter.com/fsBrMyYk5m— Leny yoro (@leny_yoro) December 31, 2023
