Manchester United’s newest recruit, Leny Yoro, received a warm welcome from Rio Ferdinand, who sent him a heartfelt video message filled with words of wisdom. The 18-year-old French star was signed from Lille for a whopping £52million, and Ferdinand, a former United centre back, took it upon himself to offer some valuable advice.
On Thursday night, United confirmed the signing, beating off stiff competition from Real Madrid, Liverpool, and PSG. The deal, which includes a £42m fee plus £10m in add-ons, is subject to registration, but Yoro has already signed a five-year contract with the option of a 12-month extension.
After undergoing a photoshoot in United kit, Yoro was given a surprise by the club’s media team – a special video message from Ferdinand. The former United star began by saying, ‘Welcome to Manchester United, man!’
Leny Yoro was given a surprise video message from a former player after joining Man United
Rio Ferdinand, who made a personal plea to the player this month, sent a video message
‘I wish you all the best, Leny. Remember, hard work is the key to success. You’ve got all the tools, you’ve got everything ready to make a big impact at this club. It’s the best club in the world, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy yourself. Good luck, and let’s go!’ Ferdinand said in the video message.
Earlier this month, Ferdinand made a personal plea to Yoro, urging him to join Manchester United. He compared Yoro to Arsenal’s William Saliba, saying, ‘If you’re looking, Leny Yoro, please accept and come to Man United, please.’
Ferdinand continued to praise Yoro, saying, ‘Physically, he’s not as developed or formidable as Saliba, but he’s a different kind of central defender. He’s quick, he tries to nibble to get in front, he can play, he’s long, tall, and mobile.’
The former Manchester United centre back also offered some advice to the 18-year-old
Man United completed the £52million signing of highly-rated Lille defender Yoro on Thursday
It was a real coup for United amid interest in him from Real Madrid, Liverpool and PSG
Yoro expressed his excitement about joining United, saying, ‘Signing for a club with the stature and ambition of Manchester United so early in my career is an incredible honour. I know about the history of young players at Manchester United and feel it can be the perfect place to reach my potential and achieve my ambitions.’
He becomes United’s second signing of the summer after Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee moved to Old Trafford for £36.5m.