Topics: Everton, Manchester United, Premier League
Manchester United's decision to spend an initial £52 million on highly-rated Lille defender Leny Yoro has raised eyebrows at Everton, according to a new report.
Yoro, who is regarded as one of Europe's top prospects, will travel to the UK to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms with Manchester United.
That's according to The Athletic, who suggest the 19-year-old has 'warmed to the idea' of joining the Premier League club after he initially preferred a move to Real Madrid over other interested parties.
Madrid, however, have 'shown no indication of paying the price that United and Lille settled on' and a big-money deal to join the ranks at Old Trafford looks more likely than ever.
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An agreement between Lille and United for an initial €62 million (£52m] fee was reached last week.
There is still work to be done ahead of a move being completed but it looks the signing of Yoro has been prioritised over fellow transfer targets, Matthijs de Ligt and Jarrad Branthwaite.
Everton have already turned down two offers worth £43 million and £50 million for England international Branthwaite, who is reportedly "keen" to join United this summer.
The Cumbrian enjoyed a breakout campaign with Sean Dyche's side, and was included in the provision England side for Euro 2024 before being cut from Gareth Southgate's final 26-man squad.
Branthwaite has been valued at between £70 million and £80 million, according to The Manchester Evening News.
The report goes on to suggest that figures at Everton were 'surprised' by United agreeing such a 'steep fee' for Yoro considering his age and lack of international experience. They also mentioned the fact that he plays in Ligue 1.
Everton, meanwhile, believe their valuation of Branthwaite is accurate considering the fees paid for Harry Maguire, Wesley Fofana and Josko Gvardiol in recent years.
The above doesn't mean a deal for Branthwaite is all but over for United.
The Athletic mention that the club are maintaining their admiration for both Matthijs de Ligt and Jarrad Branthwaite, but it appears another arrival at Old Trafford will depend on departures.
