Diego Leon: Man United take surprise call on the future of forgotten wonderkid | OneFootball

1

Manchester United’s need for reinforcements at left-back is well known by now.

INEOS could have potentially saved millions by promoting from within, but, rather surprisingly, a second academy graduate has now been deemed not ready for the step up in quality.

Harry Amass, who had an excellent loan spell with Sheffield Wednesday last year, impressed during pre-season, and the expectation was that the 19-year-old would play as Luke Shaw‘s backup this season.

However, INEOS seem to be open to his permanent departure instead.

Diego Leon could be joining Harry Amass

Now, as per Roundtable, Diego Leon could also be leaving Old Trafford, with the Red Devils open to a loan exit.

The Paraguayan’s agent has already hinted at his client’s uncertain future, and the report has stated that United would prefer for the former Cerro Porteño wonderkid to stay within the EFL.

“Manchester United are open to loaning young left-back Diego Leon for the 2026/27 season, after his season with the Under-21s last term.

“Roundtable understands that the Red Devils would prefer that the 19-year-old remain in English football if he were to leave on loan before the end of the transfer window.”

United’s loan preferences revealed

It makes sense for the 20-time English league champions to insist on an EFL loan, with Diego Leon yet to come to grips with the pace and physicality of English football.

Former head coach Ruben Amorim had given the Paraguay international minutes during the previous pre-season tour, but that did not translate into a senior United debut.

Michael Carrick did not show the same inclination this pre-season, and United feel the 19-year-old is best served heading out on loan instead of playing Under-21 football.

Last season, Diego Leon played 20 times in all competitions for United’s reserve side, scoring once.