Newest Man United signing sends a direct warning to Luke Shaw

Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League
Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United - UEFA Europa League | Soccrates Images/GettyImages

Fixing the goal-scoring problem has taken Manchester United's focus this summer, but it's easy to forget about a deal they've already made.

In January, United signed left-back Diego Leon before loaning him back to Cerro Porteno for the remainder of the season. The 18-year-old is set to feature in United's preseason tour, with many assuming he will find another loan to continue his development.

Not so fast. Leon has other ideas.

"Everyone thinks I'll go out on loan, but I don't have that mindset," Leon told Versus. "I'm going to kill it in pre-season and within one or two games, I'll already be playing with them."

He will get an opportunity to prove himself, there's no doubt about that. It's also a warning to Luke Shaw, whose future with the club remains a talking point.

Diego Leon is determined to compete for his spot at Man United and avoid another loan

Shaw has battled injuries, limiting him to only 16 Premier League starts over the past two seasons. It's also unclear exactly how he fits into Ruben Amorim's system. Patrick Dorgu was the preferred choice at the left wing-back spot, with Shaw playing as part of the three central defenders when he was available.

Leon could compete for either spot. He has predominantly played as a left-back in his career, and it's unclear whether Amorim would prefer him on the left of the three central defenders or to push him forward into a wing-back role.

A loan could benefit the Paraguay U20 international, who made only 14 appearances for Cerro Porteno last season. It's a big ask to become a regular in Premier League action right away. But he sounds confident.

If he earns a spot in Amorim's squad this season, Leon could provide direct competition for Shaw, whose future at Old Trafford is already uncertain.

Injuries have robbed him of significant playing time in recent seasons, and United have a clear opening on the left side of their defense.

Leon may ultimately go out on loan, but he is determined to prove otherwise. Some young players benefit from being part of the first-team squad rather than going somewhere on loan, and taking that approach could fast-track Leon into the rotation before long.

United need upgrades across the pitch, and Leon will have every opportunity to prove himself. Shaw is officially on notice.