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Manchester United are set to secure their first signing under manager Ruben Amorim, with Paraguayan teenage defender Diego Leon poised to join the club.
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Teenage Talent on the Move
The 17-year-old Leon has been spotted preparing to leave South America for Manchester, where he will undergo a medical before signing a long-term deal. The transfer, reportedly worth £6 million, will see his current club, Cerro Porteño, benefit significantly from the move.
Although Leon is expected to return to Paraguay on loan for the rest of the season, his signing is seen as a strategic investment for the future. As a left-sided defender, he offers depth in a position Amorim is eager to strengthen.
United’s Search for Left-Sided Stability
Ruben Amorim is reportedly targeting a dynamic left-sided player capable of excelling as a wing-back. Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes, who previously worked with Amorim at Sporting CP, remains a key target for United.
Currently, Diogo Dalot has been covering the left flank, despite being naturally suited to the right. Meanwhile, Luke Shaw continues to face fitness issues, and Tyrell Malacia is still recovering from a long-term injury.
Potential Exits at Old Trafford
United are also expected to see some high-profile departures during the January transfer window:
- Marcus Rashford: The England international has fallen out of favour and is attracting interest from AC Milan, Juventus, and Napoli.
- Joshua Zirkzee: The Dutch forward, who joined United for £34 million from Bologna last summer, is reportedly unsettled. Juventus are keen on Zirkzee, with a potential swap deal involving Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic being discussed.
Diego Leon’s International Pedigree
Leon, who made his first-team debut for Cerro Porteño in August 2023, has also earned a call-up to Paraguay’s squad for the South American Under-20 Championship in Venezuela. His arrival at United is seen as a long-term investment rather than an immediate solution for the first team.
