Lille accept £42m Leny Yoro transfer bid from Man Utd as Premier League giants attempt to hijack Real Madrid's move for French wonderkid

According toNabil Djellit of France Football, the Red Devils have taken a decisive step to secure one of Europe's most promising young talents with a €50m (£42m/$53m) bid for the defender that has been accepted by the Ligue 1 outfit. The offer is considered "superior" to that of Real Madrid, who have long been considered favourites to land the 18-year-old's signature.

Despite United's bid being accepted, Yoro's future is not yet sealed. The player's preference remains to join Real Madrid, with whom he has allegedly agreed on personal terms.

Lille's willingness to sell Yoro this summer stems from his contract situation. With the youngster entering the final year of his current deal, this transfer window represents the last opportunity for Lille to secure a substantial fee for their star defender before risking losing him for free next summer.

United must offer a compelling sporting project to Yoro to lure him to Old Trafford given he has made it clear that his dream destination is Real Madrid. It has been reported that Los Blancos are also in negotiations with Lille over a final transfer fee and if they fail to reach an agreement, Yoro is prepared to remain at Lille for another year, which would enable him to join the Spanish giants as a free agent at the end of his contract.