Manchester United have been handed a potential boost in signing AC Milan winger Rafael Leao following his exclusive interview with Sport TV on Saturday.
The Portuguese has been a key player for the Rossoneri since he arrived from Lille in the summer of 2019, but he has now publicly admitted his desire to move on from the club.
Milan failed to qualify for the Champions League next season after missing out on a top-four finish in Serie A. It contributed to the sacking of manager Massimilliano Allegri.
The lack of Champions League football may force the Rossoneri to sanction a big-money sale this summer to balance their books, and Leao has said he is ready for ‘a new challenge’.
Speaking to Sport TV, Leao said: “I am proud that I made history at Milan, but now I want a new chapter. I am looking forward to playing in another league. I did my best for Milan, the club gave me everything, but I am feeling ready for a new team, a new league and a new challenge”
United handed a boost in the pursuit of Leao
The Red Devils currently have Matheus Cunha as their specialist left winger. Patrick Dorgu, who is primarily a left-back, has caught the eye with his performances while replacing Cunha.
Despite this, United may want another natural option in the wide attacking position. Leao operated as a second striker for the Rossoneri last term. He struggled with just 13 goal contributions.
However, the former Lille man was fabulous during the 2024/25 season, in which he played as an out-and-out left winger. The 26-year-old accumulated 25 goal involvements for the Milan heavyweights.
Aside from his regular role, Leao can feature as a lone striker too. He can be mesmerising to watch on his day with his fantastic pace and quick dribbling. He has the knack of getting behind defences.
However, the main cause for concern with him has been his poor defensive work rate. The Portuguese is not someone who likes to track back and help his left-back when his team is out of possession.
He tends to prefer to stick around the halfway line in order to launch quick counter-attacks. It remains to be seen whether United are prepared to accept his weaknesses and build on his strengths.
Gazzetta dello Sport have claimed that United’s interest in Leao has ‘resurfaced‘ this month. The talented attacker could be signed for a package between £43m and £52m in the next transfer window.
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