Manchester United have shifted their focus to Rafael Leao, with the AC Milan forward and Chelsea target emerging on their radar.
According to Daily Mirror, Rafael Leao is on the radar of Manchester United, with the Red Devils identifying him as a target. The Portuguese international’s stock has been on the up, with Chelsea and Manchester City also keen on signing him.
Leao started the season where he left off in 2021/22, and four goals and four assists in eight Serie A matches have skyrocketed his value. The 23-year-old is aware of the attention he is getting and has so far rejected a new contract extension.
Milan have offered a new lucrative deal to fend off interest from suitors like Chelsea and Manchester City. But Leao has not committed anything yet and might be ready to explore new idea outside Italy. And if push comes to shove, Milan will demand around £60 million for him.
Manchester United’s current attacking contingent does have a number of exciting talents. But the likes of Jadon Sancho and Anthony Martial have not risen to the occasion, with the latter also encountering fitness issues. So the need for an extra pair of feet has arisen.
Martial’s persistent injury problems have been a threat to Manchester United’s good start, while Sancho’s inconsistency has seen him go in and out of the team. Leao is capable of playing on the left wing and can also be deployed as a central striker. Versatility is what Erik ten Hag craves for. And the Manchester United hierarchy has got his green signal for a potential deal.
But a deal in January is unlikely as Milan will quote an astronomical fee to part ways with the youngster. The Red Devils had a busy summer with as many as six players arriving at the club and therefore they won’t be able to pay the desired sum.
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Chelsea have also been knocking on the door for quite some time, as Graham Potter seems to be swayed by the player’s ability. In addition, Manchester City will also provide stiff competition in the race to sign the Milan talisman. However, they will have to fight off interest from other clubs, including Manchester United, as it stands.
