Romano CONFIRMS Man Utd in ‘active’ transfer talks as first deal of Amorim era ‘close’

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 11 Dec 2024 13:51 GMT
• 8 min read

Fabrizio Romano says that Manchester United are locked “in active talks” to sign a wonderkid in what might be the first completed deal of the Ruben Amorim era.

Although Man Utd parted company with sporting director Dan Ashworth in surprising circumstances over the weekend, the Red Devils are undeterred from plunging into the transfer market, with the long-term ambition of the club still to sign promising talent from across the world.

Romano has confirmed the Old Trafford side’s interest in Cerro Porteno left-back Diego Leon.

Taking to X, he said: “Manchester United are in active talks with Cerro Porteno for 17-year-old left back Diego Leon as talent for the future.

“Similar to Sekou Koné deal last summer, Man Utd keep looking at talents from abroad and $4m deal is being discussed also with León’s agents.”

This is confirmation of news broken on Tuesday from Eduardo Burgos and Ben Jacobs, who first reported: “Manchester United are in talks with 17-year-old Paraguayan defender Diego León.

“Cerro Porteno want around $5m including add-ons. Some optimism on the player side a deal can be closed soon.

“Jason Wilcox involved in discussions.”

Who is Diego Leon?

Diego Leon may only be 17, but he was one of the top-performing left-backs in Paraguay’s Primera Division Apertura during 2024, notably catching the eye with his dribbling abilities.

Indeed, he is primarily an attack-minded player even from his deep role, suggesting that he is the type of character that would fit into the style of new Man Utd head coach Ruben Amorim. He is also considered to be a physical monster for his age. Amorim is known to want to raise the Red Devils' level of athleticism.

Diego Leon vs. Primera Division full-backs

Hurdles will need to be cleared for him to eventually hook up with the Red Devils, though.

Firstly, he will not be able to join Man Utd formally until the summer because he does not turn 18 until 3 April.

Furthermore, there are concerns over whether he will earn a work permit for the UK. Currently, he is ineligible for one and is not close enough to make an appeal. With numerous top European clubs said to be tracking the player, this has to be considered something of a concern.

Man Utd can still secure his registration, but the likelihood is that Diego Leon will remain in Paraguay with Cerro Porteno for some months yet.