Manchester United have reportedly finalised the signing of 17-year-old Colombian midfielder Cristian Orozco from Fortaleza CEIF.

The youngster, who captains Colombia’s Under-17 side, has been on the radar of United scouts for several months and is now set to join the club once he turns 18 next year.

Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that all details are complete, with the move worth around $1 million (£741,000). United’s legal team have approved the paperwork, and Orozco is expected to arrive at Old Trafford in the summer of 2026.

Rising reputation in South America

Orozco has already gained recognition for his leadership qualities, having worn the armband for his country’s U17 side.

His performances at the recent South American Championship further elevated his reputation, drawing interest from several clubs across the continent.

For United, the deal is seen as part of a broader push to identify and secure top emerging talent from non-European markets.

Orozco’s profile has been likened to Sekou Kone, another teenage recruit who arrived from Malian side Guidars FC for a similar fee in 2024 after impressing at the U17 World Cup.

United’s academy focus

In recent years, Brexit regulations have restricted Premier League clubs from signing players under 18 from European academies.

This has prompted United to expand their scouting operations in South America and Africa, with the aim of strengthening their youth development pathway.

Earlier this year, United struck a £3.3m deal, potentially rising to £7m, to bring in Diego Leon from Paraguayan club Cerro Porteño.

Leon joined the squad at Carrington in the summer and impressed during pre-season, even earning opportunities to train under Ruben Amorim with the first team.

While he is still awaiting his senior debut, his early progress has encouraged staff that this strategy is paying off.

Orozco’s arrival continues that theme, with the teenager seen as another long-term investment who could develop into a first-team option in the years ahead.

United look to bounce back

Beyond youth signings, United’s senior squad are preparing for a critical Premier League fixture against Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Ruben Amorim’s side will be aiming to recover from last weekend’s 3-1 defeat at Brentford, where Igor Thiago scored twice and Mathias Jensen added a late strike.

Reflecting on the performance, Amorim admitted his team fell into their opponents’ trap.

“I think we played the game they wanted us to play, the opponents – really confused: first balls, second balls,” the manager said.

With United now under pressure to respond, the upcoming match represents both an opportunity to regain momentum and a chance for Amorim to recalibrate his system.

In the background, though, the club’s investment in Orozco and other emerging stars reflects a longer-term vision that extends well beyond this season’s results.