United make huge transfer decision on history-chasing star after his defiant statement – report

Manchester United have reportedly made a big call regarding new arrival Diego Leon ahead of the upcoming 2025/26 season.

Leon’s arrival at United

Leon officially joined United earlier this month from Cerro Porteno in his homeland.

He made 33 senior appearances for the Paraguayan outfit before sealing a move to United in a deal worth around £3.3m. This could rise to £7m with add-ons.

Despite completing the transfer this summer, United agreed a deal to sign him in January. He is on course to make history, becoming the first Paraguayan to turn out for the Red Devils.

A strong and imposing presence, Leon impressed with his displays at left-back. Under Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-3 setup, United are expected to utilise him in the more advanced role of left wing-back.

Leon has been training with the first team ahead of the club’s pre-season tour as Amorim and his coaching staff assess his level ahead of a decision on where he will be primarily playing next term.

Now, according to The Athletic, it seems that a verdict has been reached.

United will not loan out Leon

While at the airport on his way to United, a bullish Leon told reporters that his plan was to shine in United training and force Amorim to include him in the first team.

The 18-year-old said, “Everyone thinks I’ll go out on loan, but I don’t have that mindset. I’m going to kill it in pre-season and within one or two games, I’ll already be playing with them.”

Now, The Athletic reveal that sending Leon out on loan is “not part of the plan.”

The newspaper states, “Manchester United’s second summer signing — albeit one where the deal was agreed in January — is expected to stay put for the duration of the coming season, to help him acclimatise to English football.”

“Whether he remains part of the senior side’s training programme or joins the under-21s is still to be decided.”

“Either way, the young South American will have opportunities to impress on the upcoming pre-season tour to Sweden and the United States, and will then likely play at least a few games for the under-21s on his return.”

The Athletic note that there is a chance Leon could “progress quickly” and eventually break into the senior squad, but with United missing out on European football, there may be fewer chances for him to gain regular minutes.

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