Cerro Porteno sporting director Gabriel Wainer has confirmed that Manchester United are front-runners to sign their highly-rated young left-back Diego Leon.

The 17-year-old has earned himself admirers from Premier League clubs and other European heavyweights, after bursting on to the scene in Paraguay this season. Leon's progress this season, as well as his potential, has earned him plaudits from United, who are working hard to get a deal done.

The Manchester Evening News understands United have scouted Leon extensively - and are currently locked in negotiations with Cerro Porteno on a proposed £3.1million deal. The youngster is considered one of the hottest talents in South America - and is physically advanced for his age with speed, height and athleticism a few of the attributes he possesses.

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In a press conference in Paraguay, Wainer confirmed to reporters that United are front-runners to sign the defender. "Manchester United has a clear intention to sign Diego Leon, but the paperwork has not yet been finalised," he explained.

"Other teams have also asked about Leon in the last few hours, but the one that has shown a letter of intent, without going into detail, was Manchester United." As things stand, Tyrell Malacia is the first choice on the left-hand side to play the wing-back role which head coach Ruben Amorim prefers.

However, after an 18-month injury lay-off there are question marks whether he can be the No.1 choice for United moving forward. Luke Shaw remains in the squad at United, but after his serious injury issues in the last couple of seasons, there are also concerns over his status.