United Beyond Manchester

Manchester United have finally signed a midfielder, just not for the first team. Following a quiet summer in that area of the pitch, United officials have been working behind the scenes on possible targets, including several options for the youth setup. One such player is Cristian Orozco, who, according to Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra, has signed a pre-contract to join the club after his 18th birthday.

International Recognition

While Orozco has yet to make a senior appearance in Categoria Primera A for Fortaleza CEIF, he caught the world’s attention at the South American Championships. The 17-year-old defensive midfielder captained Colombia’s U17s to the final, where they fell in penalties to Brazil.

Two areas where Orozco demonstrated his quality at the tournament were his game reading and passing ability. He intercepted a total of 17 passes across the five games and completed 13 long balls from his deeper-lying position.

United’s Youth Revolution Continues

Orozco joins a long list of recent young first-team or academy signings for Manchester United. Last season, the club added teenagers Leny Yoro, Chido Obi, and Sekou Kone in the summer, and Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven during the winter window.

While no new first-team signings were U20 players this summer, Diego Leon arrived from South America after turning 18, similar to the new deal the club has agreed to for Orozco.

The youth movement is seen as a necessary step for the club to develop talent and avoid costly mistakes, such as those made by the club with players like Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Andre Onana.

Stats via Sofascore.