Manchester United have made a significant move in the transfer market, according to journalist Nabil Djellit, who Football Park rate as a tier 3 source.

Djellit reports that United have had an official offer of £42 million plus bonuses accepted by French side Lille for their talented centre-back, Leny Yoro.

🚨 | BREAKING:#mufc have submitted a written offer for Lenny Yoro of £42 million plus bonuses that Lille have ACCEPTED. [@Nabil_djellit] pic.twitter.com/lItACARQKg

— UtdDistrict (@UtdDistrict) July 9, 2024

However, United might still have a fight on their hands, as the young defender has his sights set on Real Madrid. United are on the hunt for at least one new central defender this summer.

They've already seen two bids for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite, the latest totaling £50 million, rejected.

Matthijs de Ligt is another name on United's wishlist, with negotiations underway with Bayern Munich. The German champions value the Dutch international at €50 million (£42 million).

Yoro, an 18-year-old sensation from Lille, is also high on United’s list. However, they face stiff competition from European giants Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea.

Reports suggest that Real Madrid are now in advanced talks with Lille over Yoro.

🚨 Man. United tried to sign Leny Yoro last week but the answer they received from the player was the same: “I’m sorry, but I want to play for Real Madrid”.

This is the same response PSG & Chelsea got. @jfelixdiaz pic.twitter.com/qyWnZ26xI7

— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) July 8, 2024

Marca claims that Madrid are confident of securing a deal for around €40 million (£33.7 million) plus add-ons. Yoro has reportedly expressed his desire to join the Spanish giants.

United, however, are not giving up without a fight. They’ve made a late bid to hijack Madrid’s move, hoping to convince Yoro to bring his talents to the Premier League.

This pursuit of Yoro is part of a significant summer overhaul at United, following the club’s decision to trigger a one-year extension for Erik ten Hag, keeping him at the helm until 2026.

🚨 BREAKING: Erik ten Hag extends Man Utd deal until June 2026. Ten Hag: “complete unity in vision” to compete for titles. Ashworth: review led to “clear conclusion Erik best partner to work with”. Staff pending final agreement + visas @TheAthleticFC #MUFC https://t.co/6fj58wxAaq

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) July 4, 2024

United are expected to soon finalize the signings of defender Matthijs de Ligt and striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bayern Munich and Bologna, respectively.

Both players are currently representing the Netherlands at Euro 2024.

With Raphael Varane’s departure and injury concerns surrounding Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez, United’s need for defensive reinforcements is urgent.

They conceded 58 goals in 38 league games last season, highlighting the necessity for a more solid backline.

Man Utd conceded 75.77(xG) last season, but only 58 goals.

In other words, they should’ve conceded 17.77 more goals than they did. pic.twitter.com/ZkgXfyB4qF

— The xG Philosophy (@xGPhilosophy) June 1, 2024

The race for Yoro’s signature looks set to be a thrilling contest between Real Madrid and Manchester United.

While Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool have also shown interest, it seems the young French centre-back will choose between the La Liga and Premier League giants.

United’s determination to strengthen their squad and challenge for major honors next season is clear.

Whether they can convince Yoro to join their ranks remains to be seen, but their persistence in the transfer market is a statement of intent.