Boost for Man Utd as £52m magician ‘dreaming’ of EPL move after being targeted by his own fans | OneFootball

Manchester United might stand a realistic chance at landing AC Milan star Rafael Leao, who is no longer the crowd’s darling at San Siro.

The Portuguese is a Sporting CP youth product who had a stint at LOSC Lille before joining the Diovolo in 2019.

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The attacker gradually established himself as the Rossoneri’s ultimate star, especially when he spearheaded their charge towards a Scudetto title in 2021/22, earning himself the Serie A MVP Award in the process.

Rafael Leao wants Premier League move as Man Utd & Chelsea lurk

Leao has established himself as one of the finest attackers in the world, and has been widely praised for his ‘magical’ skill set.

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However, the Portuguese international has been enduring a below-par campaign and is now on a torrid run. He has been jeered off the pitch by Milan supporters in the club’s last three home fixtures against Udinese, Juventus, and, most recently, Atalanta.

Therefore, many observers feel that the 26-year-old’s chapter at San Siro has now come to an end. With his contract expiring in June 2028, this could be the best time for Milan to capitalise on him and make a decent profit.

According to Il Corriere dello Sport, the Rossoneri will set their asking price at €50 million (£43m) and €60 million (£52m).

The Roman newspaper adds that Al-Hilal are keen to reunite him with his former teammate, Theo Hernandez, but the forward has no desire to play in the Saudi Pro League. On the contrary, his ‘dream’ is to play in the Premier League.

The source confirms that Chelsea and Man United are two of the clubs monitoring Leao’s situation closely.

Why Leao remains a top player despite his Milan struggles

Leao’s desire to play in England should be music to the ears of MUFC, who could be in the market for a new attacker capable of covering various roles (especially on the left wing), especially if Joshua Zirkzee leaves this summer.

Interestingly, a recent report claimed that United and Milan might be interested in a swap deal involving Leao and the Dutchman.

While the Almada native’s poor campaign could raise some red flags, it should be noted that Max Allegri has been deploying him as a centre-forward, a role that doesn’t truly suit his characteristics.

Leao often thrives when attacking from the left wing. His speedy runs and neat dribbling can be absolutely devastating for the opposition.

Moreover, many would argue that his asking price can be considered a bargain for a player of his calibre.