Man United transfer news: Red Devils look to replicate Yoro deal with Ligue 1 centre-back

In 2024, Manchester United secured the services of French defender Leny Yoro. Two years on, the club are once again looking to Ligue 1 to strengthen their defence.

Developed at Lille, the now 20-year-old French centre-back was the subject of a financial tug-of-war between the current third-placed Premier League side and Real Madrid, a battle United ultimately won, paying £53m to the northern French club.

United eye another Ligue 1 centre-back

The gamble has not entirely paid off yet: while Yoro has performed well this season, the former Lille man does not always start, and his move to Old Trafford has not brought him closer to the French national team, with no senior call-up to date.

Nevertheless, Manchester United are said to be ready to try again with another young Ligue 1 defender. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, relayed by Les Violets.com, the English club are interested in a 23-year-old centre-back playing for Toulouse:

“A player they really like, and one I can add to the list, is Charlie Cresswell, former Leeds United, English under-21 international. Wolfsburg were very close to signing him in January but couldn't match Toulouse's asking price, so he's still there. He plays every week in Ligue 1 and, alongside other names, he is among the profiles Manchester United are monitoring.”

Cresswell's appeal for United

Charlie Cresswell comes with one immediate advantage over Yoro, he is English. While he did not get much Premier League experience at Leeds (just five appearances) a potential move from Toulouse would not require a lengthy adaptation period. Solid defensively, the Toulouse No. 4 is also commanding in the air and a consistent contributor going forward, with four goals and three assists this season. He looks well-equipped for the step up to the Premier League.

As Jacobs noted, however, Cresswell is not the only name on United's shortlist. According to CaughtOffside, the club are also competing with Barcelona for Evan Ndicka (AS Roma), valued at £38m. In all likelihood, the Toulouse defender would cost considerably less than the 26-year-old Ivorian — which may well prove to be good news for both Cresswell and Toulouse's finances.