Manchester United are preparing to officially unveil their first signing of the summer window with the arrival of Colombian youngster Cristian Orozco. The club has reportedly arranged a medical for the promising midfielder, marking a major step toward completing a transfer that has been in progress for several months.
Orozco, who has been closely monitored by United’s scouting network, is now set to finalise his long-anticipated move to Old Trafford. The agreement, initially reached last year, involved a pre-contract with Colombian club Fortaleza, with the transfer scheduled to be completed once the player met his age requirement this summer.
As reported by Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra, the teenage midfielder has already boarded a flight to the United Kingdom to complete the final formalities of his transfer. Notably, he is being accompanied by Giuseppe Antonaccio, United’s chief South American scout, which highlights the club’s significant commitment to his development.
Upon his arrival in Manchester, Orozco is expected to undergo a full medical assessment. The club’s hierarchy plans to officially announce his signing around July 13, aligning with his 18th birthday – the date when international transfer regulations will allow his registration to be confirmed.
After completing all necessary documentation, Orozco will immediately join the Under-21 squad under the guidance of head coach Adam Lawrence. The youth team is currently gearing up for a pre-season tour of Germany, which will provide the ideal setting for the young Colombian to adapt to the tactical and physical demands of English football.
According to The Standard, Manchester United have opted to keep Orozco at Carrington for the upcoming season rather than sending him on an immediate loan. Club officials intend to carefully manage his adaptation to the English game, following a similar developmental approach used for other overseas talents such as Diego Leon.
Although Orozco arrives with an impressive reputation – having captained Colombia to the final of the South American Under-17 Championship – he is not expected to feature for the senior team immediately. Manager Michael Carrick remains focused on restructuring his senior midfield, particularly following the departure of veteran enforcer Casemiro, who has joined Inter Miami at the end of his contract.
In their ongoing efforts to strengthen the midfield, United had previously agreed a £37 million deal in May with Atalanta for Brazilian midfielder Ederson. However, the transfer faced delays after Ederson was unexpectedly called up to Brazil’s World Cup squad as an injury replacement for Roma’s Wesley.
Simultaneously, Manchester United continue to pursue West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. The Red Devils are competing with Tottenham Hotspur for his signature, but West Ham’s management have made it clear they will not lower their valuation, holding firm at a £90 million asking price for the 21-year-old.