Man Utd in 'advanced negotiations' for first signing of Ruben Amorim's reign after agreeing transfer fee

The Red Devils believe 17-year-old Diego Leon could be the solution to a long-standing left-back problem that has persisted since Erik ten Hag’s tenure, with South American football journalist Cesar Luis Merlo reporting that the club have agreed on a deal worth around $4 million (£3.1 million) with Cerro Porteno and are now locked in negotiations regarding add-ons and the player’s economic rights.

Moreover, according to ESPN, Leon’s agent has travelled to England to finalise the move. However, as Leon does not turn 18 until April 2025, he is expected to remain with Cerro Porteno until at least next summer.

Speaking to Deportes Uno, the 17-year-old expressed his excitement about competing in the 2025 Copa Libertadores with Cerro Porteno, while also addressing his links with United. He said: "I’ve read about Manchester United’s link with me, I don’t know anything. Everything is handled by my agent. I spent four years preparing for this opportunity, you have to take advantage of it when it comes. Now I’m thinking about everything that happened this season. The night before the debut I couldn’t sleep because of the excitement."

Juan Carlos Pettengill, vice-president of Cerro Porteno, has added: “Diego Leon will play this season at Cerro. He can’t leave before he turns 18 years old.”

Leon has had an impressive 2024 season with Cerro Porteno, featuring in 19 Primera Division Clausura matches and starting 18 of them. His potential arrival is seen as a step toward addressing defensive frailties that have been evident during Amorim’s early days at United, especially on the left, with Luke Shaw still injured and Tyrell Malacia struggling to make an impact.