MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester United have finalized a deal to sign 17-year-old Colombian midfielder Cristian Orozco from Fortaleza CEIF, with the move set to take effect in the summer of 2026 when the player turns 18.
The agreement was confirmed on Thursday by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who reported that the contracts have been signed and approved by Manchester United’s legal team. The transfer fee is reported to be $1 million, and the deal was coordinated by United’s lead scout, Gerardo Guzmán Antonaccio.
“Manchester United have now sealed and signed a deal to bring in 17-year-old Colombian talent Cristian Orozco,” Romano posted on X. “$1m transfer fee from Fortaleza in a deal valid from summer 2026.”
Orozco is the captain of Colombia’s Under-17 national team and has emerged as one of the top young prospects in South America. A defensive midfielder known for his intensity and leadership, he played a pivotal role in guiding Colombia to the final of the Under-17 South American Championships last year. He has also made appearances in Colombia’s domestic league with Fortaleza CEIF. Once he joins, Orozco will become part of Manchester United’s growing investment in youth talent, alongside other recent signings such as Sekou Kone and Chido Obi-Martin
