Manchester United have renewed their interest in Rafael Leão. The Red Devils are targeting several reinforcements ahead of next season, which is expected to be their return to the Champions League.
Their number one target remains Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa, but with a price tag of no less than €100 million, the English club are considering alternatives, including the AC Milan number 10, who could leave Milan after seven seasons.
Milan, for their part, would like to receive a fee that reflects the player’s true value, but United are considering the possibility of including at least one of the following three players in a swap deal: Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte and Marcus Rashford.
Manchester United’s strategy regarding Rafael Leao
The English club would like Leão and are assessing the idea of including some of their squad players to facilitate the operation, as pointed out via Calcio Mercato.
The Portuguese number 10, it should be remembered, has a contract with Milan until 30 June 2028 worth €7 million net per year (making him the highest-paid player in the Rossoneri squad). This is a figure that United could easily match or exceed in order to secure his signature and bring him to Old Trafford from next season.
Milan set the price
Despite a release clause of €175 million, Milan would appear willing to consider possible offers for Leão starting from a figure around €50 million.
No longer considered untouchable, he could leave the Lombardy capital for the right offer.
Three possible counterparts
As mentioned, Manchester United could include potential players that appeal to Milan in a deal, including former Bologna player Joshua Zirkzee, who was already monitored by Milan before his move to the Premier League.
Rashford and Ugarte are also profiles that could interest the Via Aldo Rossi club: the English winger is on loan at Barcelona with an option to buy set at €30 million, which is being considered, while the South American midfielder has reportedly been offered to several European clubs by his agent, Jorge Mendes.
The situation is one to watch closely, but Leão’s future may be away from Milan.
