Man United have ‘agreed a deal’ to sign 17-year-old midfielder | OneFootball

Manchester United secure deal for Colombian prospect Cristian Orozco

Manchester United have agreed a deal to sign Cristian Orozco from Fortaleza CEIF. The Colombian midfielder, aged just 17, is set to make the move official once he turns 18 in July 2026, according to The Athletic.

Rising talent from Colombia

Orozco has already represented Colombia at under-17 level, featuring in the CONMEBOL South American U-17 Championship this year. His side reached the final before losing to Brazil on penalties. That campaign underlined his composure in midfield and his ability to operate in high-pressure tournaments.

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The teenager currently plays for Fortaleza in Colombia’s top flight. His progress has not gone unnoticed, and United’s decision to act early demonstrates the continued focus on South American youth markets.

United’s wider strategy

Orozco follows a similar path to Diego Leon, who joined from Cerro Porteno earlier this year. Leon’s arrival, worth up to $9m, was another example of United securing talent before it hits peak market value.

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The club have also strengthened youth ranks closer to home, with Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi both arriving from Arsenal and already making Premier League debuts.

Looking ahead

Orozco will not link up with the senior squad until 2026, but his signing illustrates the longer-term planning now being carried out at Old Trafford. With Ruben Amorim keen to add depth and competition, the deal could be another piece in reshaping United’s next generation.

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This feels like another step in building something sustainable rather than short-term. United have been guilty in the past of chasing high-profile names without a coherent plan. Seeing the investment in young players like Orozco suggests there is finally a strategy in place.

Supporters will remember the frustrations of watching rivals develop strong academy products while United’s pathway seemed blocked. Now, with Orozco following the likes of Heaven, Obi and Leon, there is evidence that the structure is shifting. The South American market is tough to navigate, but getting in early often pays off, and fans will hope United have learned lessons from scouting setbacks in the past.

Of course, patience will be required. Orozco will not arrive until 2026, and he may take years before he is ready for regular first team football. But there is comfort in the idea that the club are laying foundations now rather than waiting for problems to arise later.

For fans, it represents hope that Old Trafford will once again see a core of young, hungry players defining the future. If Orozco develops as expected, this could be a signing remembered as part of a much-needed cultural reset.