Another busy summer is expected for Manchester United, and several areas of the squad will be addressed. At least one new midfielder will arrive at Old Trafford as Casemiro is leaving in June.
A new defender might also be on the cards with Harry Maguire still yet to extend his contract. Reports have linked right-back Diogo Dalot with a move to Real Madrid.
United were keen on bolstering their wide options in January but missed out on Antoine Semenyo to Manchester City. They appear to have now set their sights on AC Milan attacker Rafael Leao.
Man United like Leao
The Portuguese forward is one of Europe’s most highly rated frontmen, capable of playing on the left wing and as a centre-forward. He has scored eight goals and provided two assists in 19 Serie A games this season.
According to Italian journalist Daniele Longo of CalcioMercato, Leao has been linked with a move to the Premier League. Particularly United, who could be eyeing the 26-year-old as a Semenyo alternative.
Leao’s future is the subject of speculation amid contract talks between the player and Milan. His current deal expires in 2028, and the Italians are exploring ways to extend his stay at the San Siro.
It looks likely that Leao will remain with the Rossoneri rather than move to the English top-flight. He’s been with the Serie A giants since the summer of 2019.
Milan legend and former United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic will certainly be hoping that’s the case. The Swede defended the Portuguese star in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport back in October after his form was criticised:
“We expect magic, because Leao is magic! Of course, we’ll always talk about him, because he’s one of the best players in the world, and I’m not saying this for marketing purpose.”
Leao ticks boxes for United, given his versatility, as he can play up top and on the wing. He is of the right age to make an immediate impact at Old Trafford.
A move for the Milan man could come to fruition if Joshua Zirkzee were to part ways. Reports suggest the Dutch attacker is set to leave in the summer and might return to Italy with AS Roma.
An unreasonable fee
Leao would be an expensive signing given his status in the Milan team and time left on his contract. A report from Fichajes suggests the asking price could be around €100 million (£87m).
With INEOS needing to continue rebuilding the squad, spending that much on a winger is unnecessary. A new attacker does appear to be on the club’s agenda despite signing Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko last summer.
A more attainable option is Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Mateus Mane who is catching the eye in his debut season. The 18-year-old is reportedly on the club’s shortlist, and a cut-price deal could be a possibility if Rob Edwards’ men are relegated as expected.
