Manchester United
Transfer Complete: Manchester United have finalized the signing of a 24-year-old striker for a world-record fee of £122 million, making him the most expensive player ever purchased by the club.
By JADE – June 24, 2025
Manchester United has unveiled their plans regarding young defender Diego Leon, who is expected to officially join the team in July, according to reports from Manchester World.
While the club is keen on bringing in players who can contribute immediately to the first team, they also focus on acquiring promising young talent worldwide, targeting players with strong potential and future resale value.
Examples include Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi-Martin, both bought from Arsenal for relatively low fees and now on the verge of breaking into the senior squad.
Plans for Diego Leon at Manchester United
Diego Leon has already passed his medical examination.
Manchester World reports that United will finalize Leon’s transfer from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteño next month. The agreement was reached in January, but the club waited until Leon turned 18 to complete the deal. He is expected to sign a five-year contract, with a transfer fee potentially rising to £7 million.
Transfermarkt describes Leon as “lightning-quick.” Having completed his medical at Old Trafford, United plan to assess him during pre-season instead of immediately sending him out on loan.
Though a loan is still a possibility, Leon will be evaluated over the upcoming months and might even join Ruben Amorim’s senior squad for their pre-season tour in the United States.
Considering his young age and limited first-team experience, it’s unlikely Leon will become a regular starter next season. However, the next few months will allow United to monitor his progress and decide on the best approach for his development.