Manchester United have completed the signing of highly rated teenager Diego Leon, subject to registration, sealing a second arrival of the summer window.
At 18, the defender has agreed on a long-term deal at Old Trafford after Ruben Amorim’s side settled a package with Primera Division outfit Cerro Porteno earlier this year.
The 20-time English champions paid £3.3 million for the Paraguayan, with a range of performance-related add-ons potentially inflating the fee to £7 million.
With 33 senior appearances in club football to date, Leon has grown from strength to strength throughout a notable campaign that gained widespread interest across European football.
His arrival will be supported by the first team and a notable academy structure whilst he becomes accustomed to life in England ahead of an intriguing development.
Diego Leon is determined to make his mark at Manchester United
Despite his inexperience at the highest level and the daunting prospect of representing a troubled United side, Leon is relishing the opportunity and remains unfazed by the task ahead.
“Everyone thinks I’ll go out on loan, but I don’t have that mindset,” he told Versus.
“I’m going to kill it in pre-season, and within one or two games, I’ll already be playing with them.”
As is common knowledge, Amorim is determined to implement his tactical ideals in the Premier League and requires a collection of athletic footballers to complement his comprehensive vision.
The signing of Patrick Dorgu provided a glimpse into his mindset, and there are many similarities with Diego, including a relative technical skill set and modern versatility of a marauding full-back.
Notably, his physicality and commanding frame have provided a distinct advantage against many older opponents throughout his young career, sometimes compensating for his limited knowledge of the senior game.
Following in the footsteps of Sekou Kone and Chido Obi, the 18-year-old possesses plenty of raw talent and ample promise, with a tenacity setting him apart from many of his peers.
Interestingly, the youngster’s arrival signifies hope for a renewed South American approach, as idle ownership had previously been unwilling to develop a sustainable future through shrewd acquisitions.
Speaking with Shaun Connolly in April, Roberto Arce (59), a lifelong supporter of El Ciclon, believes the full-back has the tools to thrive in England but will need time to adapt.
“Look, we’re not silly; we know the level is much higher in England,” Roberto told the Theatre of Red.
“We like this player. He’s sometimes reckless and has generated some negativity among the fans. But he cares, he tries, and his talent is growing.
“Will he make it? Who knows. Do I think he can succeed in Europe? Of course! Strong, fast, and athletic. It’s what you’d expect from a modern defender. But, he requires time and understanding – he is still learning.
“Unlike some, I wish him the best in Manchester.”
How do you feel about the latest South American arrival in the North West? Let us know in the comments or on our social channels.
Image via manutd.com
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