Diego Leon: Manchester United defender expected to join Nice | OneFootball

Manchester United left wing-back Patrick Dorgu is feeling the weight of expectation at Old Trafford. 

Ahead of United’s trip to Crystal Palace, Ruben Amorim admitted he can sense nervousness “every time he touches the ball.” The 21-year-old was subsequently benched in favour of Diogo Dalot against Palace. 

Amorim’s comment raises question marks over his decision to sign an inexperienced player for such an important position in his 3-4-3 system. 

Instead of signing a more seasoned wing-back during the summer transfer window, United welcomed another highly-rated prospect, who is deemed not ready for the toils of Premier League football. 

Diego Leon yet to make his Manchester United debut

In January, United struck an agreement with Paraguay side Cerro Porteno to sign 18-year-old left-back Diego Leon after being left impressed with his athleticism. 

The 18-year-old, however, had to wait until the summer to move to Manchester in a deal worth £7m with add-ons.

Leon was part of Amorim’s pre-season squad. The youngster is still waiting for his senior debut, having been named in a handful of matchday squads for the Red Devils. However, the Paraguay international has featured regularly for the U21s in recent weeks.

Leon to leave Man United in January

According to CentreDevils, Leon is set to leave United on loan in the January transfer window.

It is understood the Paraguayan gem is expected to join OGC Nice in Ligue 1. The United starlet is likely to be involved with the side’s first team.

The French outfit are owned by Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s company, INEOS. The report states: “INEOS are using their connections with the French club to facilitate this move.”

It is added that Leon himself has pushed for a loan move, as he seeks regular minutes at senior level to further his development.

Amorim, meanwhile, continues to rotate between Dorgu and Dalot. Both players have underwhelmed on the left flank, to say the least. 

Featured image Molly Darlington via Getty Images

online polls

The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social