Man Utd 'leave Premier League rivals baffled' after agreeing Leny Yoro transfer

Everton have reportedly been left ‘baffled’ by Manchester United’s move for Leny Yoro.

The Red Devils have made it no secret that they are keen to reshape their defence this summer, with Raphael Varane and Willy Kambwala being allowed to depart and Victor Lindelof firmly in the shop window at Old Trafford.

Toffees defender Jarrad Branthwaite was quickly identified as a top target by United and the club were keen to pounce on their rivals’ need to offload players for PSR purposes by lodging two separate bids for the England international worth £43million and £50m.

Both offers were knocked back by Everton though, who stood by their valuation of between £70m and £80m for the talented centre-back.

United did not return with a third offer for Branthwaite and have turned their attention to Lille star Yoro instead, working around the clock to persuade the 18-year-old that he should join them rather than prioritising a move to Real Madrid.

The Red Devils soon reached an agreement worth up to £62m for the young Frenchman, and the Manchester Evening News report that Everton have been left ‘surprised’ by the fee.

Senior figures at Goodison Park feel that £62m is ‘steep’ given that Yoro is set to become a free agent next summer, plays in Ligue 1 and does not have any international caps to his name. The surprise appears to be rooted in the fee United were willing to pay for Branthwaite in contrast.

United are hoping to accelerate proceedings quickly as they are fearful that other interested parties – namely Madrid – could attempt to prize him away from their grasp with a late lucrative offer.