“Deal Almost Finalized” – Leeds United Set to Complete £7m Transfer for Exciting MLS Starlet as Manor Solomon’s Replacement, Labelled a ‘Classic Old-School Winger’

“Deal Almost Finalized” – Leeds United Set to Complete £7m Transfer for Exciting MLS Starlet as Manor Solomon’s Replacement, Labelled a ‘Classic Old-School Winger’

In recent years, Leeds United has undergone a significant transformation, bidding farewell to their promotion-winning heroes and ushering in a new era at the top of the Championship table. The club has significantly reduced the age of its squad, moving on from veterans like Luke Ayling and Liam Cooper to welcome fresh talent such as Jayden Bogle, Ao Tanaka, and Manor Solomon.

Whether this new generation can reach the heights of their predecessors—especially given that a top-half Premier League finish feels distant at the moment—remains to be seen. This is the challenge of transitioning between eras; the successes of those before often create added pressure for those taking their place.

On the other hand, USMNT head coach Mauricio Pochettino faces a different kind of challenge. Rather than trying to match the achievements of past teams, he can justify his changes by pointing to the failures of previous squads.

Diego Luna Earns First USA Call-Up Amid Leeds United Interest

The U.S. men’s national team (USMNT) has long been seen as a nation with vast untapped potential in international soccer. However, their recent performances have been far from impressive—failing to get out of the group stage at the 2024 Copa America, exiting the 2022 World Cup with a loss to the Netherlands, and being ousted from the Gold Cup after a surprise semi-final loss to Panama.

As Pochettino takes the reins, he is introducing ten uncapped players to his squad for upcoming friendlies against Venezuela and Costa Rica. This presents a crucial opportunity for players like Patrick Agyemang, George Campbell, and Diego Luna to prove they can lead a new era as the North American World Cup approaches.

Leeds United has been linked with Luna recently, with The Mirror reporting that the club has shown interest in the 21-year-old Real Salt Lake star, who is valued at around £7 million. Luna’s first call-up to the senior USMNT is a significant milestone in his career, cementing his rise after a stellar season.

“We are extremely excited to work with a new group of players and continue to implement our ideas,” Pochettino said. “MLS is very important to the national team project, and these players have earned this opportunity.” And few have earned it more than Luna.

Diego Luna: A Rising Star with Parallels to Manor Solomon

Real Salt Lake’s ‘Moon Boy’ had a breakout year in 2024, scoring nine goals and providing eight assists, which led to his recognition as MLS Young Player of the Year. Luna’s ability to play for both the U.S. and Mexico adds to his allure, making him a valuable asset for Pochettino, especially after Luna had previously considered a future with El Tri.

Luna’s versatility allows him to play as a left winger or attacking midfielder—positions where the USMNT lacks depth. His playing style sets him apart, offering a dynamic, “old-school” winger approach that isn’t often seen in the modern game. He’s known for his fearlessness on the pitch and his ability to take on defenders with skill moves and quick changes of pace.

Interestingly, Luna’s style bears resemblance to that of Manor Solomon, Leeds’ current loanee from Tottenham. Like Solomon, Luna loves to take on full-backs with quick feet and sharp movements, drifting in from the left side. With Solomon’s loan ending in the summer, Luna could provide a similar flair to Leeds’ attack.

As Goal notes, Luna is a “fantastic and tidy attacker in tight spaces” who thrives in wide areas or when making inverted runs into the box. His style, full of cheeky skill moves, is a refreshing change in an era where wingers are often tasked with holding width or recycling possession.