Manchester United could end up making a surprise move for Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka in the summer transfer window.
Ao Tanaka’s future has been a massive talking point for months, as he has not had enough game time this season under Daniel Farke. The Japanese international is open to leaving Ellan Road this summer in search of a prominent role, and according to a report from TEAMtalk, Manchester United have emerged as a surprise destination.
The Red Devils are considering signing the 27-year-old on the back of his sensational performance at Old Trafford on Monday. Leeds defeated rivals United 2-1, and Tanaka, who was handed a rare start, was one of the standout performers for them.
On the back of his impressive performances for Fortuna Dusseldorf in the German second division, Leeds signed him in the summer of 2024 in a bargain deal worth £2.9 million. He had an impressive debut campaign and played a big part in the Yorkshire-based outfit’s promotion to the top flight.
However, the 27-year-old seems to have gone down the pecking order this time around. He has only been involved in 26 games and has racked up fewer than 1,200 minutes. The player is unsurprisingly frustrated by the lack of minutes, and he is ready to part ways with Leeds this summer.
Manchester United are plotting a surprise raid on Leeds United
While there is significant interest from Germany, the Japanese international wants to continue in England, and Manchester United have emerged as a surprise destination. His energetic display in Monday’s historic win over the Red Devils at Old Trafford seems to have impressed Michael Carrick.
Manchester United feel he could have an important role in their team thanks to his exceptional ball-winning ability. With Casemiro leaving and Manuel Ugarte likely to be sold, United’s midfield revamp could hand Tanaka an opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the world.
Even though the Japanese international does not have a prominent role in the team, Leeds United are aware of his capabilities and are looking to make a profit from his sale. They want at least £15 million to kick-start negotiations.
While he has not had a prominent role under Farke, the manager was also impressed with his performance on Monday, and the club are also considering handing him a new deal. As a result, Tanaka’s future is certainly one to keep an eye on.
