Manchester United will reportedly look to seal the transfer of 43-cap Portuguese international Rafael Leao from AC Milan this summer after submitting enquiries for a deal.
A report by Italian outlet Calciomercato has revealed that AC Milan forward Rafael Leao is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils are eager to bolster their offensive unit by signing a versatile wide attacker in the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, the Serie A giants will demand over €50 million to consider selling him in the coming months.
The Premier League giants have initiated their move for the Almada native, having “gathered detailed information” from the player’s representatives in recent days. While Manchester United will face stiff competition from Barcelona for Leao’s signature, the Catalan outfit’s interest has become “tepid” ahead of the summer.
How has Rafael Leao fared at AC Milan so far?
Rafael Leao has become a household name since joining AC Milan from LOSC Lille in August 2019. The 26-year-old took no time to become a pivotal figure for the Rossoneri, and he has made significant progress at the Serie A club in the last half a dozen years. Additionally, his form being synonymous with the Italian outfit’s fortunes.
Leao has not been at his best this season, managing only ten goals and three assists in 26 outings thus far. Nevertheless, the Portuguese international remains a hot property in the market, with several European giants, including Barcelona and Manchester United, vying for his signature ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
A man in demand
Rafael Leao has been on Manchester United’s radar for a long time. The continued interest makes sense, as the Red Devils want a new left winger this summer. They are preparing to compete on four fronts next season, and having two options for every position will be necessary. So, pursuing the AC Milan attacker is a sensible decision.
As for Barcelona, it is unclear if Marcus Rashford will complete a permanent move to Spotify Camp Nou in the coming months. While Manchester United and Barcelona will hold crunch talks to hash out a plan for a summer deal, it behoves the Catalan giants to keep their options open.
However, with Manchester United having better financial ability to match AC Milan’s valuation, Barcelona will face a tall order to land the 26-year-old Portuguese international. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for Leao.