By
Manchester United have bolstered their squad with the signing of 18-year-old Paraguayan defender Diego Leon from Cerro Porteno, the club confirmed on their official website.
The transfer, finalized on July 5, marks the Red Devils' second acquisition of the summer, following the arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers for 62.5 million pounds.
The deal for Leon, a versatile full-back who can operate as a left-back or wing-back, was initially agreed in January but completed this week after the player turned 18. United paid an initial 3.2 million pounds, with potential add-ons that could see the total fee rise to 7 million pounds, higher than the originally reported 5.5 million pounds. Despite his youth, Leon brings experience, having played 33 senior matches for Cerro Porteno, scoring four goals.
United's official statement highlighted their excitement: "We are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young defender Diego Leon, subject to registration. The Paraguay youth international has joined from Cerro Porteno. As an emerging talent, he will be supported by our first team and the Academy whilst he settles into life in Manchester."
Leon, who stands at 6ft 4in and has drawn comparisons to Brazil legend Marcelo for his attacking flair and physicality, expressed his ambition in an interview with journalist Matias Cuevas before leaving Paraguay. "The feelings are indescribable," he said. "I'm very happy. Every player dreams of this, and I have the opportunity. I'm not going there to make up the numbers. I'm going to kill it in preseason and be playing with them soon."
The teenager's confidence is matched by his potential. Having debuted for Cerro Porteno in August 2024 with a match-winning goal, Leon has shown he can handle senior football. His pace and ability to contribute in attack make him a natural fit for manager Ruben Amorim's preferred 3-4-2-1 system, where he could compete with Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu for a spot on the left. However, analysts note his defensive positioning needs refinement, an area the United Academy will likely focus on.
United's transfer activity is far from over. The Red Devils are pushing to sign Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo, with a third bid expected after two offers, 45 million pounds plus 10 million in add-ons and 55 million pounds plus 7.5 million in add-ons, were rejected. Brentford are holding firm at a 65 million-pound valuation, but Mbeumo's desire to join United offers hope.
Elsewhere, United are exploring striker options. Talks have been held with Aston Villa over Ollie Watkins, though the Villans' 60 million-pound asking price is a hurdle. Ivan Toney, now playing in the Middle East after a prolific spell at Brentford, is keen on a move to Old Trafford, while Victor Osimhen has reportedly named United as his top choice among four potential destinations.
The Red Devils are also in the race for Leicester City's Wilfred Ndidi, whose release clause is believed to be under 9 million pounds following the Foxes' relegation. However, they face competition from Everton and five other clubs.
United's transfer strategy reflects their ambition to recover from a disappointing 2024/25 season, where they finished 15th in the Premier League.
With young talents like Leon, Chido Martin, Ayden Heaven, and Leny Yoro already in the fold, Amorim's rebuild is taking shape, blending youth and experience to restore United's attacking verve and defensive solidity.
