Manchester United have not taken any concrete steps to sign AC Milan winger Rafael Leao despite his desire to join the club this summer, according to Gazzetta dello Sport (page 6).
Leao has been a key player for the Rossoneri for the last seven years, but he has confirmed plans to pursue a new challenge. The Portuguese wants a ‘new chapter‘ away from Serie A.
The 26-year-old ‘dreams‘ of playing in the Premier League with United or Arsenal, but ‘no concrete steps’ have been taken by either side. He has only received offers from Galatasaray and Fenerbahce.
United should not consider Leao approach
Leao had a below-par 2025/26 season with the Rossoneri. The left-sided winger played out of position as a second striker and was inconsistent with just 13 goal contributions.
He was far better in 2024/25 with 25 goal involvements, featuring as a specialist left winger. Despite this, we don’t believe United should pursue a deal for the former Lille man.
The £43 million star has the ability to torment defences with his pace and fine dribbling skills. He can make goal contributions, but his off-the-ball work is an obvious cause for concern.
Leao is somewhat of a luxury player who tends to hold the line for counterattacks. He has a low defensive work rate and a languid style, which has been criticised on many occasions.
United currently have Matheus Cunha, who is very energetic and possesses a tireless work rate on both ends of the pitch. In comparison, Leao is almost the opposite and has a reluctance to track back.
Given the Premier League’s higher intensity, he does not suit Michael Carrick’s system. If United want to pursue a genuine competitor for Cunha, Morgan Rogers would be a perfect acquisition.
However, a deal seems improbable, given Aston Villa could demand at least £100 million, while the player may likewise want a guaranteed starting role, which Arsenal, for example, could provide.
United may need to seek an alternative signing to compete with Cunha and Patrick Dorgu for the left-wing position next term. Club Brugge star Christos Tzolis could be a realistic target.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
