Manchester United are currently the frontrunners to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan this summer, with the Italian club reportedly willing to accept a fee of just €50 million (£43 million) for the Portuguese winger.
Leao progressed through the youth ranks at Sporting CP before a season with Lille led to a €35 million move to Milan in August 2019. He has since become a key player for the Rossoneri, registering 80 goals and 65 assists in 295 appearances, and was instrumental in their Serie A title win in 2021-22 and Italian Super Cup victory last year. He was also named Serie A’s Player of the Year following Milan’s Scudetto triumph.
Despite his success in Italy, Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Leao’s time at San Siro is nearing its end, with the player not intending to renew his contract which is due to expire in June 2028. Criticism from fans regarding recent performances has also contributed to the club’s willingness to sell.
This situation has presented an opportunity for United, who have ‘resurfaced’ their interest in the 26-year-old. While Fenerbahce have also expressed interest, United are considered the favourites due to Leao’s preference for the Premier League and the greater global profile the club offers. Intermediaries have also offered Leao to Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, but United appear the most likely to make a move.
According to reports, United manager Michael Carrick is seeking a left winger following potential departures of Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho. Garnacho has already completed a £40 million move to Chelsea, while Rashford is hoping to make his loan spell at Barcelona permanent. United are also considering other options, including Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon, Bradley Barcola, Yan Diomande and Iliman Ndiaye, but Leao is currently considered a primary target. His arrival would provide a significant attacking boost to the squad.
Leao’s potential arrival could signal a shift in attacking options for Manchester United as they look to rebuild their forward line for the upcoming season.
