Manchester United have already confirmed their first transfer for the January window, which will include one of their summer signings, according to reports. It’s been a complicated campaign for the Red Devils, with many ups and downs over the past few months. They are competing with the Premier League’s top four but are currently mid-table after Monday’s loss to Everton.
United spent over £220m over the summer, bringing in a number of big-name players to strengthen their squad. They also signed one player for the future, with teenage full-back Diego Leon among the players arriving at Old Trafford. However, he has struggled to find playing time and despite being on the bench three times, he is still waiting for a Premier League win.
As a result, United are preparing to loan him out in January, with Nice listed as his most likely suitors, according to Paraguayan outlet Pasion Estudio.
Major shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe also owns French companies through INEOS and will reportedly use his connections to plan a deal once the window opens.
Despite the Red Devils being set to lose Nousair Mazraoui when he departs for the African Cup of Nations, where he will represent Morocco, United appear willing to allow the transfer.
According to a separate report from Mercado de Passes, Leon would welcome the opportunity to join Nice on loan until the end of the season.
The move will help him gain more experience in Europe’s top leagues and could benefit United when he returns for the 2026/27 season.
Although his minutes at Old Trafford have been limited, the young defender appears to be enjoying life at the club after joining from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno in the summer.
Speaking to MUTV earlier this season, Leon said: “It’s unbelievable. I’m really enjoying being here with my teammates and learning a lot.”
“I talk to almost all the players and they give me advice both on the pitch and in person. The coaches also give me a lot of things to improve my game.”
It has also been suggested that United could call up more players for the start of the season in January. Wolves midfielder Joao Gomez has been linked with a potential move, with reports suggesting that around £44m could be enough to earn him a deal.
Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo is also thought to be a player United are interested in. However, the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal are said to be considering the possibility of a move of their own.
