AC Milan return for Leny Yoro as Jorge Mendes could help unlock Manchester United deal

AC Milan have reportedly revived their interest in Manchester United defender Leny Yoro as Ruben Amorim continues to look for another centre-back.

Milan failed to complete a defensive signing during the final stages of the summer transfer window despite links with several targets.

Gonçalo Inacio and Tiago Gabriel were among the names considered, but no deal materialised. Milan eventually kept Fikayo Tomori alongside Koni De Winter, Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlovic and Mario Gila.

However, the search is expected to resume in January, and Yoro has emerged as one of the most interesting options.

The 20-year-old French defender joined Manchester United from Lille for around €62million in 2024.

Yoro already knows Amorim particularly well after working under the Portuguese coach at Old Trafford, something which could make him an attractive option for Milan.

Another potentially important factor is Jorge Mendes.

The Portuguese super-agent represents Yoro and also manages other defenders previously linked with Milan, including Inacio and Gabriel. Mendes could therefore play a significant role if Milan decide to make a serious move in January.

Yoro is reportedly valued at around €50million, meaning Milan would still need to make a significant investment.

However, the Italian club have already demonstrated their willingness to spend heavily on priority targets, including the €75m signing of Gonçalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain and the deal for Diego Moreira worth up to €65m including bonuses.

Yoro's situation at Manchester United could also create an opportunity.

The Frenchman has made only four appearances across all competitions this season: two in the Premier League, one in the Champions League and another in the Carabao Cup.

He has also remained on the bench for three league matches and has not started in the Premier League.

That lack of regular football could eventually push Mendes to explore alternative options for his client.

Manchester United invested heavily in Yoro and would therefore be unlikely to sanction a cheap departure.

However, if his limited playing time continues over the coming months, Milan could test United's position when the January transfer window opens.

His previous experience working with Amorim could make Yoro particularly appealing as Milan search for a defender capable of immediately understanding the manager's demands.

For now, it remains a situation to monitor rather than an advanced negotiation.

Milan are expected to reassess their defensive options ahead of the January transfer window after failing to add another centre-back during the summer.

Yoro's playing time at Manchester United will be crucial. If his opportunities remain limited, Mendes could look for a solution and Milan may be positioned to take advantage.

The €50m valuation remains a significant obstacle, but Milan's recent spending suggests they are prepared to make major investments when they believe a player fits Amorim's project.