Arsenal are closing in on Paraguan teenage left-back Diego Leon, as they are in advanced negotiations with his club Cerro Porteno.
According to ABC, Arsenal are the only club in advanced negotiations to sign teenage left-back Diego Leon from Paraguayan club Cerro Porteno. The Gunners are open to letting the 17-year-old South American full-back prodigy stay with his current club until he reaches a certain age to comply with the rules.
Arsenal probably has a huge bank of left-backs after the summer window, when they got one player in the window and another from the academy and retained their existing options. On paper, they have five players who can play that role, not counting Jurrien Timber, who has played there since the start of the campaign.
The arrival of Riccardo Calafiori seemed like the next step Mikel Arteta wanted to take in evolving that position. Despite a slow start to life in terms of adaptation and other things, the Italian has probably cemented his place as Arsenal’s starting left-back, and it’s his place to lose.
They also have Myles Lewis-Skelly from the academy, who has predominantly featured in that role, although his future might be in central midfield. Serie A-linked Jakub Kiwior has stayed at the club and has been used as a squad player this season. If the Pole leaves, Arteta might gamble with a young talent in his place that he can develop.
Arsenal are now linked with 17-year-old South American full-back prodigy Diego Leon ahead of the January window. The Paraguayan talent has been making some waves in South America, with many clubs seemingly showing interest, but the Gunners are reportedly ahead in the hunt.
Arsenal well advanced in their chase
Arsenal are holding advanced discussions with Paraguayan club Cerro Porteno for Leon, with the report stating with confidence that they will end up signing the 17-year-old South American full-back prodigy. The financial details of the move are still under wraps, but he could be a player they will want to develop in their mould.
Leon is still 17, and South American rules prevent players from leaving for another European club until they turn 18. He will celebrate his 18th birthday in April, meaning Arsenal are set to allow him to stay at Porteno for the first part of 2025. This will aid his development as the club prepares to welcome him next summer.
