Amorim’s first Man Utd signing: Romano announces ‘HERE WE GO’

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 13 Dec 2024 16:34 CST
• 8 min read

Fabrizio Romano has announced that Diego Leon is Manchester United’s first signing of the Ruben Amorim era.

The 17-year-old Cerro Porteno full-back is not old enough to join the Red Devils during the January transfer window so will hook up with his new club in July 2025.

Romano has confirmed that Leon will cost Man Utd an initial $4 million (€3.8m, £3.2m), with a further $1m to follow in what are described as “easy add-ons”. A further $3.5m could head to Cerro Porteno via further bonuses.

Taking to X, Romano stated: “Manchester United reach verbal agreement to sign 17 year old Paraguayan left back Diego León from Cerro Porteno, here we go!

“Initial fee will be $4m plus $1m easy add-ons and over $3.5m based on player’s/team future performances.

“Diego Leon will arrive in July 2025.”

Although Leon is expected to hook up with the Red Devils at that point, he will need to receive a work permit, which could prove a difficult challenge given that he is not eligible for one as things stand.

United could still have the option of sending him out on loan abroad at that point in order to build up more points to earn his UK visa.

Who is Diego Leon?

Diego Leon is a teenage left-back who has featured 19 times for Cerro Porteno’s first team.

He is seen as a player who will fit into the philosophy of new Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim as he is primarily attack-minded, with his dribbling abilities a particular standout technical quality. He also possesses impressive physical characteristics that the Portuguese boss admires.

Diego Leon vs. Primera Division full-backs

Already he has shown his qualities in Paraguay’s top-flight, producing a string of exciting displays that have made him one of its top performing full-backs, despite his young age.

Man Utd appear to have landed themselves a gem, and with Cerro Porteno initially wanting $5m, they have picked up Diego Leon at a competitive price to add to their ranks of future talent.