Manchester United have officially announced the signing of a talented player just before preseason starts on Monday. Softfootball can reveal that the Red Devils are still in negotiations with longtime target Bryan Mbeumo but have finally unveiled Paraguayan left back Diego León.
The 20-time Premier League champion agreed a deal for Leon in January and he passed his medicals but had to return to Cerro Porteno to finish the season because he was still 17 at the time.
A statement on the club website read:
Manchester United are delighted to announce the signing of exciting young defender Diego León, subject to registration.
The Paraguay youth international has joined from Cerro Porteño in his homeland.
The talented full-back has already played 33 senior games, scoring 4 goals, for his club.
Leon reached the age of 18 in April and as an emerging talent will be supported by our first team and the Academy whilst he settles into life in Manchester.
Welcome to United, Diego!
Softfootball can report that Leon flew into England on Friday with a strong belief that he won’t be sent on loan because of his age or play for the academy. The 18-year-old is hopeful of breaking into Reuben Amorim’s first team and play regularly.
In an interview with Sport Witness, Leon said:
The sensations are inexplicable. You feel so many things. The truth is, I’m very happy, very happy to be there. I think every player dreams of this, and I have the opportunity. Thank God for the opportunity.
I think it was a bit quick, but hey, you have to adapt quickly once you’re there. I’m already a professional. You have to adapt quickly.
I’ll have to adapt a bit to the climate, the language, and all that. I have a lot of confidence in myself. I’m going to be at the top with them.
Leon is expected to fight for a place at left back Luke Shaw, Patrick Dorgu, Harry Amass, and Tyrell Malacia if he fails to find a new team. Leon will join the rest of Manchester United’s first team squad as preseason starts on Monday.
