Chelsea have intensified their efforts to sign a replacement for Thiago Silva in the next transfer window. Despite competition from a host of elite clubs, the Blues are considering Lille’s Leny Yoro as one of their top transfer targets for the summer.
Chelsea Join Transfer Race for Leny Yoro
A Ligue 1 Sensation
Yoro has developed into one of Ligue 1’s most promising young defenders since making his senior debut for Lille in 2022. This season, the 18-year-old has secured a starting spot under Paulo Fonseca, making 33 appearances across all competitions.
Game reading skills and imposing physicality distinguish the Lille star from most defenders his age, establishing his reputation as one of France’s best talents.
Former Newcastle winger Remy Cabella has said of his current teammate: “At Marseille, I knew Boubacar Kamara, at Saint-Étienne, William Saliba and Wesley Fofana, and now there’s Leny Yoro. He has all the qualities and potential to do something huge. He’s very humble, and that’s another one of his strengths.”
The Most In-Demand Youngster in Europe?
Yoro’s performances have attracted interest from a number of elite sides across Europe. It’s not surprising to see Paris Saint-Germain among the teenager’s suitors. However, in recent weeks, reports have emerged that Manchester United and Real Madrid are also considering him among their summer targets.
According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea are the latest club to join the race for the defender. The Blues are eager to sign a new centre-back as they look to find a replacement for Silva. The veteran defender is set to leave the club when his current deal expires at the end of the season.
Can Chelsea Afford to Sign Yoro?
A potential bidding war for the Lille defender is not ruled out as several elite sides are interested in signing him. Rumours about a £78 million release clause have not been confirmed by any major source. However, with the likes of Chelsea and PSG in the race, the French club’s asking price could very well exceed this amount.
Mauricio Pochettino’s team are already in a difficult position amid concerns over breaching the Premier League profit and sustainability rules. The Blues have made a total loss of £211.5 million over the past two years, more than double of what the league allows the clubs to make over a three-year period. Selling players seems to be the only solution for the London side to balance their book and pursue moves for major summer targets such as Yoro.
More must-reads: