Manchester United have reportedly taken steps toward signing Portuguese forward Rafael Leão from AC Milan, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
This move appears to be part of a broader plan to overhaul the attacking department under new manager Rúben Amorim, as the club looks to bounce back from a disappointing goal return last season.
Following the confirmed signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for a fee of around £62.5 million, United are also in advanced talks with Brentford to secure Bryan Mbeumo, who is similarly valued by his club. However, United’s recruitment drive may not stop there.
Reports now claim that several wide players — including Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and possibly even Alejandro Garnacho — could be sold this summer.
This has prompted the club to explore additional reinforcements, with Leão being seriously considered.
The Portuguese attacker, who has been a pivotal figure for AC Milan in recent years, is seen as a high-impact addition.
Though the Rossoneri are reluctant to let him go — especially with his contract running until 2028 — they have placed a hefty £84 million price tag on him.
That said, the player’s own willingness to move away from the San Siro after a difficult campaign might push Milan to consider lower bids, potentially around £59 million.
Leão’s pedigree is undeniable. He played a central role in Milan’s 2021/22 Serie A title-winning campaign and also helped them secure the Supercoppa Italiana more recently.
Despite not being at his peak last season, the 25-year-old still managed to contribute 12 goals and 11 assists across 50 matches in all competitions — impressive numbers for any forward.
His ability to play on either wing or as a supporting striker adds to his value and could fit seamlessly into Amorim’s fluid, high-pressing tactical setup.
However, there are questions surrounding whether United truly need another wide forward.
If Mbeumo is brought in and Cunha is expected to play a key role, spending nearly £60 million on Leão could be seen as excessive — particularly with glaring needs in central midfield and the center-forward position still unresolved.
Critics argue that unless multiple wide players do indeed leave, this money would be better allocated to filling more urgent gaps in the squad.
United aren’t alone in their pursuit of Leão. Bayern Munich are also closely monitoring his situation, especially as Leroy Sané’s future remains uncertain.
If Sané departs, Bayern may step up their efforts to land Leão, making the competition even fiercer.
Going forward, it will be crucial to watch whether United escalate their interest into a formal offer, how Milan responds to any bids below the full release clause, and whether Bayern or other clubs make a serious push.
The outcome could shape the future of United’s attack — and possibly determine the direction of Amorim’s first full season at Old Trafford.
