Could a young Lille defender help solve Manchester City’s defensive issues? | OneFootball

As the January transfer window approaches Manchester City continue to be linked with players. Another player linked with a move to the champions is young Lille defender Leny Yoro. The French youth international has been reported as a possible target for Manchester City by le10Sport of France. Could the young Lille defender help Pep Guardiola’s sides recent defensive woes?

As a player Yoro appears to have all the attributes of a modern centre-half. He is good on the ball, and calm in possession. His presence on the ball appears to have a calming influence on his teammates. The performances of Yoro for Lille this season have been outstanding and put him on Manchester City’s radar. Standing at over 6 foot tall he is an extremely talented player for someone of his height.

Yoro possesses pace and decent defensive awareness for a player so young. He is strong in a challenge which a key attribute of his game. His pace gets him out of trouble defensively and allows him to recover quickly. It is an attribute which has seen rise to become a regular for Lille this season. He made 21 appearances for the Ligue One side in all competitions this season. Yoro has also added three goals this campaign since bursting onto the scene.

Given his young age it is unlikely that he could step in immediately and help Manchester City’s defensive issues. If signed by the treble winners given his age he would be down the City pecking order in defence. Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji, Josko Gvardiol and John Stones would all be options ahead of the youngster.

While as a player Leny Yoro is one of Europe’s top defensive prospects it is unlikely he could step in and help Pep Guardiola’s squad instantly.