Rio Ferdinand is desperate to see Manchester United sign Leny Yoro (BBC) Rio Ferdinand has pleaded with Manchester United to sign Leny Yoro and believes the Lille defender has the same potential as Arsenal's William Saliba.

United are looking to sign at least one new central defender before the start of the new Premier League season and Yoro is on their shortlist alongside Jarrad Branthwaite and Matthijs de Ligt.

Everton have rejected two bids from United for Branthwaite, the latest of which was PS45 million plus a further PS5m in add-ons.

United are yet to agree a fee with Bayern Munich for De Ligt, however, it's understood that the Netherlands international has spoken to Erik ten Hag and is open to a move to Old Trafford.

Meanwhile, reports in France on Tuesday claimed that United have seen their EUR50m (PS42.2m) bid for Yoro accepted by Lille.

However, it's understood that Yoro is holding out for a move to Real Madrid, who are yet to submit an offer to Lille which is close to matching United's bid.

More Trending Rio Ferdinand slams claim Man Utd star is better than Arsenal's William Saliba

If you're looking Leny Yoro, please accept and come to Man United, please. Man United, please, make the offer and please accept, because this kid, I think his ceiling is as high as anybody right now, Saliba included.'

Asked about comparisons to Saliba, Ferdinand said: 'Physically, he's not as developed or going to be as formidable, but he's a different kind of centre-half.

'He's quick, he tries to nibble to get in front, he can play, he's long, tall, and mobile.'

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