Manchester United have officially announced the signing of 18-year-old defender Diego Leon from Cerro Porteño. The Paraguay youth international finalized his move to Old Trafford after completing a medical in January, with the agreement stipulating his transfer would occur in the summer window.
Leon's former club, Cerro Porteño, confirmed his departure to Manchester United via social media. The club wished him the best, stating (translated from Spanish): "We wish the greatest success to the player Diego León, Canterano del Cyclón, who will continue his career as a professional footballer in England and will bring all the Paraguayan talent to the prestigious Premier League. Let's go all in, Diego".
The young left-back is eager to start with the Red Devils. Before his flight to Manchester, Leon told Versus, "I'm really happy, I think every player dreams of this... When you're a professional, you have to adapt quickly, it is a massive opportunity". He also shared a message on social media saying, "See you soon Manchester United," alongside a graphic indicating he was en route to Manchester.
United will pay Cerro Porteño an initial fee of around £3.2 million, which could increase to £7 million with add-ons. Leon established himself as Cerro Porteño's first-choice left-back, scoring four goals in 33 appearances.
Despite his age, Leon is determined to fight for a spot in the first team. "Everyone thinks I'll go out on loan, but I don't have that mindset," Leon said. "I'm going to kill it in pre-season and within one or two games, I'll already be playing with them". However, sources indicate that there is no concrete plan regarding Leon's role in the first team this season, and the United coaching staff will monitor him closely during training sessions before deciding on his future.
Leon's arrival comes as Manchester United are preparing for their pre-season campaign, which kicks off against Leeds United in Stockholm on July 19. Following their match in Sweden, the team will travel to the United States to participate in the Premier League Summer Series, facing West Ham, Bournemouth, and Everton.
