Manchester United chasing £87m Serie A star | OneFootball

Man Utd open talks for £87m AC Milan winger amid Liverpool interest

Man Utd step up transfer plans for 2026

Manchester United’s revival under Ruben Amorim has been one of growing belief and tactical identity. A third successive Premier League victory, capped by a 2-1 win over Brighton, has propelled the club back into the top four and, crucially, above arch-rivals Liverpool. That run included a dramatic victory at Anfield, sealed by Harry Maguire’s late header, ending a long wait for success on Merseyside.

Now, as reported by Manchester World, United could look to gain another upper hand on Liverpool off the pitch. The club are understood to have ‘opened talks’ with AC Milan over winger Rafael Leao, a player also admired by Liverpool and Manchester City.

Amorim’s admiration for Leao

Leao, now 26, has long been viewed as one of Europe’s most dynamic wide forwards. Reports from Fichajes suggest that Amorim considers the Portugal international a “serious option” as part of his long-term rebuild at Old Trafford. While Manchester City are thought to be monitoring the situation, Leao is said to be more open to a move to United than to Anfield or the Etihad.

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The Rossoneri’s £87m (€100m) valuation remains steep, but United have shown a willingness to back their manager in the market when convinced of a player’s potential impact. Amorim’s football philosophy, built on pace, width and intelligent movement, would suit a player of Leao’s style perfectly.

Strategic implications for United

Securing a player like Leao would signal United’s intent to return to Europe’s elite level. Since Amorim’s arrival, there has been a conscious effort to modernise both recruitment and tactics, blending youth with established talent. The signing of a forward of Leao’s calibre could accelerate that process and provide a marquee addition to the front line.

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However, AC Milan’s stance remains firm, and Liverpool’s previous interest could still influence negotiations. United’s position will depend on both player willingness and the club’s financial flexibility in 2026.

Premier League opportunity for Leao

For Leao, the chance to test himself in the Premier League could prove tempting. The Portuguese winger has achieved consistent success in Serie A and Europe, but a move to England would represent a new challenge. “Leao would be open to a Premier League move,” the report adds, a line that will fuel speculation as January approaches.

If United’s talks progress, this could become one of the defining transfer stories of the upcoming window.

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Leao is the kind of player who brings flair, unpredictability and attacking presence, qualities that have too often been missing at Old Trafford. Supporters would see this as a clear statement that the club is backing Amorim’s project with serious ambition.

Many will remember the club’s struggles to replace wide forwards who can consistently influence big games. Signing Leao, especially ahead of Liverpool and City, would feel like a moral and competitive victory. It would also continue the pattern of Amorim targeting players in their mid-20s, capable of performing immediately but still developing further.

There are understandable financial concerns around the £87m valuation, yet United fans have long argued that quality comes at a price. If the move brings attacking dynamism and consistency, it could prove a worthy investment.

More importantly, it signals that Manchester United are once again thinking and acting like a major club, ready to challenge at the highest level both on and off the pitch.