Manchester United are reportedly in 'advanced negotiations' to sign highly-rated left-back Diego Leon amid interest from a host of top European clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester City.
The 17-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of South America's most promising talents, has impressed during his breakthrough campaign for Paraguayan Primera Division side Club Porteno.
In fact, Leon scored the winner on his competitive debut back in August and has since become a first-team regular, making 19 appearances in all competitions.
After impressing onlookers with his physicality and lightning quick speed, the teenager has naturally become a target for a number of Premier League clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester City.
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But it looks like Leon is on the verge of joining Manchester United, who have been active in recruiting young talent of late with the likes of Chido Obi-Martin, Sekou Kone and Silva Mexes.
A transfer figure of $4 million [£3.1m] has been agreed, according to journalist Cesar Luis Merlo, who claims several aspects of a deal have been discussed, including talks over add-ons and the player’s economic rights.
What should Manchester United fans expect if Leon makes the move?
Speaking to Transfermarkt, ESPN editor Roberto Rojas gave an insight into Leon's rise.
“He's a player with a lot of promise, who happened to make this big jump into the first team at Cerro Porteño so quickly,” he said.
“As someone coming from a remote place (Yguazú, in Alto Paraná which is roughly 300 km from the capital Asuncion) and growing up in difficult circumstances, León has proven to be someone who can surpass that adversity to get to where he's been.
"He's definitely viewed highly because of his talent and recent performances for one of the biggest clubs in the country and occupying that left flank as a full-back has allowed him to be someone who can go onto the attack, start playing from the back and also be versatile."
Earlier this week, Leon opened up on his future during an interview with Deportes Uno.
"I have huge expectations about playing in the 2025 Libertadores," he said. "I’ve read about Manchester United’s link with me, I don’t know anything. Everything is handled by my agent."
He added: "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."
Leon, who turns 18 in April, will likely be a summer arrival at Old Trafford given his age. Cerro Porteno vice president Juan Carlos Pettengill recently suggested the player would not leave until next summer at the earliest.
"Diego Leon will play this season at Cerro, he can’t leave before he turns 18 years old," he said.
Topics: Manchester United, Manchester United Transfer News & Rumours, Paraguay, Arsenal, Manchester City
Jack Kenmare