Arne Slot’s Liverpool Eyes on Leny Yoro: A Future Defensive Star?
What’s Been Said
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are reportedly among the major clubs vying for the signature of Lille’s young defender, Leny Yoro. With a potential transfer fee north of £77 million, this move signifies Liverpool’s intent to bolster their defense significantly under the new management of Arne Slot.
The report highlights that Yoro has emerged as a crucial figure for Lille this season, catching the attention of several top clubs. TEAMtalk noted, “A move for a star centre-back has been on the cards for a while, and that need has been accelerated by Matip’s exit.” Liverpool’s interest is particularly timely, given the recent departures of seasoned players Joel Matip and Romano confirming today they’ll move for a left sided centre back.
The Key Stats
Born on November 13, 2005, in Saint-Maurice, France, Yoro is a promising 18-year-old centre-back who stands at 1.90 meters. He currently plays for LOSC Lille and has a market value of €40 million according to Transfermarkt. Yoro’s current contract with Lille is set to expire on June 30, 2025, making him a valuable yet attainable target for Liverpool and other clubs.

In the 2023-24 season, Yoro made 32 appearances in Ligue 1, clocking 2,673 minutes. His performances extended to the UEFA Europa Conference League, where he featured in seven matches, further showcasing his versatility and endurance. Young, quality left sided centre-backs are like unicorns right now and just as valuable if you can get one.
Compare Him To
Comparing Yoro to Liverpool’s current young centre-back, Jarell Quansah, reveals some intriguing insights. Both players have shown significant promise, but their playing styles and success in key defensive metrics vary. Quansah, who has made 17 appearances for Liverpool this season, excels in aerial duels with a success rate of 67.2%, compared to Yoro’s 63.8%.
However, Quansah outperforms Yoro in challenge success per 90 minutes, with a 70.0% success rate against York’s 54.8%. These shouldn’t read too harshly against Yoro who is around two years Quansah’s junior although both in their first senior year at the top level.
Likelihood and Fee
Yoro’s current market valuation stands at €40 million which varies massively with the £77 million estimated transfer fee discussed in reports. However, with his contract expiring in 2025d a number of suitors, Lille might be inclined to negotiate, especially considering the player’s rising stock and interest from top clubs like Real Madrid and PSG.
Being represented by Gestifute, a prominent agency known for facilitating high-profile transfers, further increases the likelihood of Yoro making a move to a Premier League giant and Mendes enjoys a good relationship with Liverpool. However, if it comes down to fee and wages, then you’d fancy we’d be at the back of that queue. One you’d suspect Liverpool would fancy, but more likely to move to the other two. Certainly one to watch though.
He’s very good but isn’t worth £77m and needs at least another season in France.