Man Utd confirm new midfield signing after year-long pursuit and fans are impressed by debut performance

Manchester United have officially announced the signing of highly-rated midfielder Cristian Orozco, just days after he made his debut for the club in a pre-season friendly against Altrincham.

Orozco, who recently captained Colombia's under-17 national team, has joined the ranks at Old Trafford from Colombian top-flight club Fortaleza CEIF for a reported fee of around £750,000.

The 18-year-old's move was completed last month when he turned 18, although United only confirmed the transfer on Thursday (August 6) alongside a statement announcing his move to the academy as he "settles into life" at the club.

Orozco, who made five first-team appearances for Fortaleza last season, gave an insight into his play style, as well as his move to Manchester, in an interview with ESPN Colombia.

"I know my strengths are my physicality and my technique," the defensive midfielder said. "I have those qualities and, with the gift God gave me, I don’t think it will be too difficult. But everything is about adapting. I’m very young and that’s what I’ll need to do."

"I expect to learn a lot of English. When I was there, I realised just how, how important it is."

"I want to arrive and learn as quickly as possible," added Orozco. "That’s what’s required so I can show my level and everything I’m capable of. I want to adapt to everything that comes my way as quickly as possible."

Fans got an unexpected glimpse of the teenager this week, when he featured for United's under-21 side in a pre-season friendly against Altrincham.

It was a solid outing from Orozco, who showcased his passing range and composure in possession on numerous occasions at Moss Lane. You can see a compilation of his highlights below.

Plenty were impressed with his cameo, with one fan commenting: "We may have a huge talent here. Looks so composed."

A second wrote: "I liked the look of that. Presence, composure, touch, passing. Fingers crossed," and a third added: "Kinda steady and composed like Mainoo."

Latest update on Man Utd's midfield recruitment plan

United have prioritised bringing in central midfielders over the past few weeks, signing Youri Tielemans and Andrey Santos from Aston Villa and Chelsea respectively.

They triggered a £35 million release clause to sign Tielemans, while Santos arrived from Chelsea in a deal worth £48million plus £2million in potential add-ons

It was widely expected that United would bring in a third midfielder, but a report from The Athletic claims it is now 'not certain' that another one comes in, with staff considering where to next put their resources.

Mason Mount, who has struggled with injury problems since arriving from Chelsea, has impressed in a deeper role for United during pre-season, but his fitness will no doubt be a concern.