Manchester United’s plans to strengthen one position are being halted by the rapid development of one player currently featuring for the U21s.
Ineos have placed a heavy emphasis on the academy since taking over Manchester United, even signing talented youngsters across the globe to bolster the youth options.
Ruben Amorim might not have paid attention, but Michael Carrick has been an avid academy viewer since taking charge, which will be a huge plus for his chances of getting the permanent job.
Already, Carrick will have seen a handful of players who could play a part for him potentially this season, or beyond if he gets kept on as permanent.
There is also one talent the club are high on and believe he is developing at a rapid rate.
Who will be Michael Carrick’s first Manchester United academy debutant?
Carrick will need Carrington with no January signings…
Jayce Fitzgerald walking out for Manchester United.
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Manchester United believe Diego Leon is developing really well
Diego Leon joined United from Cerro Porteno last summer, costing £3.2m and being a signing with a look to the future, with knowledge he has a lot of work to do.
Before arriving, Leon vowed to make an immediate impact and it looked like he might, impressing Amorim in his first session.
Diego Leon walking out of tunnel for Manchester United U21.
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Leon got a pre-season assist vs Bournemouth, but hasn’t been seen in the first team since.
But while discussing why United aren’t sure about signing a full-back, Ben Jacobs explained to the United Stand that Leon’s development is being considered.
“If they go down the left [to sign a full-back] and you choose to add a younger one, Diego Leon is doing really well and Manchester United feel his development is actually ahead of track and don’t want to stifle his pathway.”
United will also be thinking about Harry Amass, who is currently a better player than Leon, and so signing another young left-back wouldn’t help anyone.
Do you agree with Ineos’ recruitment model of signing wonderkids?
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Leon has been off the pace for Manchester United’s U21 side
There is no denying that Leon has massive potential, and it will be up to United to extract that from him, which he still has lots of time to do.
But to say Leon has played well for the U21s would be a lie.
Despite Leon having a highlight reel goal to boast about, he has looked a level below his teammates technically which will be a big issue for him in taking the next step until he improves.
Leon had been linked with a loan but he looks set to stay as he continues to adapt to life in England, English football and works on building on his elite physical traits.
There is every chance Leon kicks on big time in the next six months under Adam Lawrence, and if he does, United might have a player ready to fast-track given his physical readiness.
But he still has a lot of work to do.
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