AC Milan open to Rafael Leao exit as Man United transfer truth emerges: ‘He’s got world-class potential’

Rafael Leao is on Manchester United‘s radar ahead of the summer but they are yet to approach AC Milan over a deal to sign him.

Recent reports have claimed that the Red Devils have been offered the chance to sign Leao this summer as he edges closer to leaving Milan.

The Portugal winger has never quite hit the heights expected of him at the San Siro, with a move away expected soon so he can reach his full potential.

United are admirers of Leao, but as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, they are not accelerating plans to sign him as it stands.

It looks as if Man United’s transfer plans will come to fruition later in the summer when they have decided who will be appointed as their new permanent manager.

🔄 Man United Transfer Update 🔄

Breaking news on deals in progress, signing scoops, departures, and contract news from the United boardroom.

VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB

Man United’s interest in Rafael Leao is not advanced as it stands

Leao has registered 10 goals and three assists in 28 games across all competitions for Milan this season as they look set to clinch Champions League qualification.

The 26-year-old has also been linked to the likes of Barcelona and Man City ahead of this summer, with United interested as they target a new left winger addition.

Appearances26
Goals9
Assists3
Shots per 903.09
Big chances created per 900.47
Successful dribbles %47.1%
Touches in opposition box per 906.02
Leao’s 2025-26 Serie A stats

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Man United are in the market for a left winger this summer, that’s one of the key positions that they want to strengthen in.

“Leao, I’m sure, is somebody who’s on their list. I’m not sure it’s as advanced as maybe reports are suggesting.

“I’m sure he’s somebody that the club are looking at. Obviously, he is a top player and has played at a very high level for AC Milan and Portugal as well.

“United know they’re going to have to strengthen this summer because of the Champions League football that they’re going to be playing next season, and it’s going to put extra demands on their squad.

“Leao is a top player. He’s explosive and has shown what he can be. He’s got the potential to be world-class if he can find form on a consistent basis.”

Marcus Rashford could return to Old Trafford amid Barcelona’s wage concerns

Rashford was an option on the left wing for United for several seasons, but Ruben Amorim ousted him from his squad last term, and he is currently out on loan at Barcelona.

The 28-year-old has registered 13 goal contributions in 28 La Liga matches for Barca this season as they close in on a successive league title triumph.

He wants to stay in Catalonia for next season, but finance expert Stefan Borson has revealed to Football Insider that Rashford could return to Man United soon as Barcelona can not afford his wages on a permanent deal.

The Red Devils are unwilling to agree to another loan move for the England star, and so Barca’s interest looks to be cooling despite his decent form.

Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Man United Insider Access

Get the full story from Old Trafford and Carrington with our dedicated expert hubs:

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from the heart of Old Trafford.