Rafael Leao: Dean Saunders issues honest verdict on United target | OneFootball

Manchester United are stepping up their transfer activity after a fruitful end to the 2025/26 season. The Red Devils banked on Michael Carrick’s Midas touch to secure third place in the Premier League table and ensure qualification for the Champions League.

The English giants’ return to the premier European club competition next season gives them a strong hand in the transfer window. Recent reports have suggested that United are close to securing the signature of Ederson from Atalanta to fill the outgoing Casemiro’s shoes.

However, INEOS are unlikely to stop at the Brazilian, with more additions planned this summer. While the midfield is likely to take centre stage, the Red Devils also remain on the hunt for attacking additions.

A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that the Premier League giants are hot on the heels of AC Milan speedster Rafael Leao.

Leao wants to leave AC Milan

Leao is a product of the fabled Sporting academy, but failed to cement a place in the club’s senior side. He subsequently moved to Lille in the summer of 2018 before catching AC Milan’s eye.

The Rossoneri came calling the following year, and the Portuguese has since become a household name following his exploits in Serie A. This season, however, he was part of a team that struggled, ended up fifth in the league, and subsequently missed out on next season’s Champions League.

Leao ended the campaign with 10 goals and three assists in 31 games across all competitions, 25 of which were starts.

Rafael Leao Stats: 2025/26 Season

Source: Transfermarkt.

With United looking for a speedy left winger this summer, Leao has emerged as an option. Recent reports have suggested that the Rossoneri are ready to let him go for just £43 million. It has also been reported that the player, who has openly professed his love for United, is eager to move to the Premier League.

However, former Liverpool striker Dean Saunders has warned the Red Devils against a move for the 26 year old.

United warned against Leao move

Speaking on the talkSPORT Breakfast Show, Saunders appeared to question Leao’s attitude, insisting that United cannot afford to sign the wrong player this summer. He said: “Every Man United signing right now is critical. With the mistakes they’ve made over the last ten years, they’ve got to get it right.”

“Has he got a good attitude? I’d just sign him, he’s obviously a decent player, but what’s his attitude like? You can’t let him in the door if he’s got a bad attitude.”

“Man United are getting better, the players (Bryan) Mbeumo, (Matheus) Cunha they’ve signed, they’re better than the players they’ve had who were just picking their wages up. Lazy. You’ve got to sign the right attitude and the club will end up like Arsenal are now. Good attitude in the club.”

Former Manchester City forward Raheem Sterling agreed with the Welshman, adding: “I’ve never been convinced with him. Milan have had a miserable season by their standards. He’s got ten goals, which is OK.”

Saunders went on to explain why he would not want Leao at Old Trafford, concluding: “Do you score goals? If you score goals, do you work hard? If you do both, come and sign for me. I’ve not seen enough of him, so I’m going to swipe left.”

Final Thoughts

While United could do with more firepower in their attack in anticipation of a busy season, it is also true that INEOS cannot afford to disrupt the dressing room with a bad apple. The Red Devils did a great job of offloading the deadwood last summer and must ensure they only sign players with the right attitude this year as well.

Featured images Marco Luzzani via Getty Images

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The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social