Leny Yoro has now revealed the first Manchester United player that he has become ‘really close’ to after joining the Premier League team.
The 18-year-old defender moved to Old Trafford from Lille for an initial fee of £50m last Thursday.
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He subsequently made his debut in Man United’s 2-0 friendly victory over Rangers on Saturday, and put in a superb performance as he played in the first 45 minutes of the game.
United fended off competition from several big teams, including PSG, Liverpool and Real Madrid, to sign Yoro – although the latter were reportedly unwilling to match United’s offer.
Speaking in an interview with United’s official website, Yoro discussed different topics, including his Old Trafford idol – none other than Rio Ferdinand.
He also revealed the one player that he has already developed a friendship with at the club.
He explained: “I’m really close to Kobbie Mainoo, and this will help me a lot. He sent me a message. He’s a really good guy.”
Mainoo played at Euro 2024 with England this summer, so has not yet started pre-season training with United ahead of the new season.
But, he has also found another acquaintance in Joshua Zirkzee, who is a fellow new signing at Old Trafford this summer.
The 19-year-old was spotted talking to Netherlands attacker Zirkzee after England knocked Ronald Koeman’s side out of Euro 2024 at the semi-final stage.
Revealing what Mainoo told him, Zirkzee told United’s official website: “Yeah, he just asked if I was coming. I said, ‘See you soon after the final’.”
Once the two players reunite at Carrington, Yoro will have already got plenty of pre-season minutes under his belt.
He was initially due to play in the Olympics for France after being selected by Thierry Henry, but his now former team Lille withdrew him from the squad amid his ongoing transfer negotiations.