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Football

12th Jan 2025

First Man United signing of Ruben Amorim era set for medical

Colman Stanley

“I’ve already started studying English.”

Man United are set to confirm their first signing under Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils are under the cosh at the moment, languishing in 13th place in the Premier League. And the latest transfer news is further proof that the Portuguese manger’s project is certainly a long-term one.

The club are set to sign Paraguayan left back Diego Leon from Cerro Porteno. The 17-year-old can join up with his new team when he turns 18 in April, but will likely be loaned back to Cerro Porteno until the summer.

Arsenal were in talks with the defender in December, but United have won the race in a deal that is set to between £4-£6 million.

Leon recently earned a call up to the Paraguay U20s squad, and will have his eye on a senior debut for his country in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.

Ahead of his medical with Man United, Leon said: “It was just a dream and now I’m going to know everything. I’m going for the check-ups, I’ll be back on Tuesday.

“I’ve already started studying (English).”

Comparisons between Leon and Real Madrid great Marcelo have been made, while former coach Manolo Jimenez said: “He is the proto-type full-back with a lot of attacking flair and he still has a lot of time to improve his defensive facets, that’s what he needs to focus on.

“I’m sure that at United they’ll work on developing it. When he starts to make clearer decisions he’s going to be a great player and he won’t commit those errors that are typical given his age and inexperience.”

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