According To Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano Manchester United’s Record-Breaking Move Is On Track As Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Strategy Disrupts Real Madrid And Crushes Florentino Perez’s Dream.

Manchester United are intensifying their efforts to sign Leny Yoro with a bold new double tactic from Sir Jim Ratcliffe, aimed at outmaneuvering Real Madrid and thwarting Florentino Perez’s ambitions of securing the teenager.

After investing £1.3bn for a 27.7 percent stake in the Glazers’ ownership earlier this year, Ratcliffe now has full sporting control at Old Trafford. He is determined to restore Manchester United to the pinnacle of English and European football. Initially focused on making key behind-the-scenes appointments, United are now channeling their energy into strengthening the squad.

TEAMtalk reports that United aim to secure at least four, potentially up to seven, big-money signings this summer to realize Ratcliffe’s vision. Alongside Omar Berrada (chief executive) and Dan Ashworth (sporting director), Ratcliffe is targeting reinforcements across the team’s spine, including a new centre-half, midfielder, and attacking players.

United recently confirmed the signing of forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for €42.5m (£35.7m). However, Zirkzee is unlikely to be the only new attacking addition, as talks are underway for two more potential signings to create an exciting new attacking partnership. United are also focused on strengthening their defense following Raphael Varane’s departure, which frees up significant wage space. The club is prepared to consider offers for Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof to potentially bring in two new defensive recruits. Bayern Munich’s Matthijs de Ligt is their top target, with optimism high that a deal can be reached. De Ligt is willing to reduce his salary to reunite with Erik ten Hag at United.

In addition to De Ligt, United have made concrete moves for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite and Lille’s Leny Yoro. While Branthwaite is a preferred option, Everton’s £70m valuation has made negotiations difficult. United have had two bids rejected, the latest worth £50m.

Despite this, United have had a €50m (£42m) offer for Yoro accepted by Lille. However, Real Madrid is also interested, with Yoro expressing a desire to move to the Bernabeu. Florentino Perez’s opening bid of €35m (£29.4m) was rejected, but he hopes the player’s preference will ultimately see Real prevail.

Ratcliffe, however, is ready to raise United’s offer for Yoro to €60m (£50.4m) to outbid Real Madrid and pressure Lille to convince Yoro to join Old Trafford. Additionally, Ratcliffe plans to leverage Jorge Mendes, Yoro’s agent, to persuade the player of the merits of joining United.

Le Parisien reports that United’s efforts are significant, with Yoro now “touched by” Ratcliffe’s determination. A decision on Yoro’s future, potentially setting a new record fee for a teenager at United, could arrive within days.