Fortaleza CEIF’s Cristian Orozco is set to join Manchester United in 2026.
In September, multiple claims from Colombia stated the Red Devils have reached an agreement with Fortaleza. It was also reported Manchester United will pay £820k for the 17-year-old.
Orozco can only arrive in the UK once he turns 18 years of age in July due to post-Brexit rules.
Fast forward to December and ESPN Deportes reports the Colombia U17 international has ‘already signed a contract’ with Manchester United.
The youngster joined Fortaleza from another Colombian side Rojo FC in July.
He’s yet to make senior debut but that would change next year. ESPN Deportes also caught up with the youngster to discuss the deal he has in place with Manchester United.
Earlier this year, Orozco captained Colombia at the U17 South American championship and the U17 World Cup.
The midfielder was asked when he was first made aware of Manchester United’s interest.
“It was during the South American championship. My agent told me during the semifinals that Manchester was watching me. That they liked me a lot, and that when I got to Medellín I would have an offer. Thank God things worked out. Now I’m focused on Fortaleza for the remaining six months,” he said.
The South American was pressed about the contract at Manchester United and when he’ll travel to England.
“I think it’s a five-year contract. I have to wait until I turn 18, which is in July, to be able to travel,” Orozco explained.
Manchester United signing is confident
He recently made a trip to the UK to visit the Premier League side.
On his first impression of the club, he added: “It went really well, to be honest. I was looking around the city. Everything was beautiful.
“I was able to see the facilities, the stadium. I’m truly fulfilling a childhood dream. It was a wonderful experience.”
Orozco has to wait for six months to move to England. However, he’s already started preparations for his arrival at Manchester United.
“My expectation right now is to learn English a lot. I realised it’s very important. I want to arrive, learn, and adapt as quickly as possible. That’s what’s required to demonstrate my level there, what I can do,” Orozco said.
“I know that with my abilities, I can be key, with the strength and technique I have. I’m very young and I need to adapt.”
