Rafael Leao: Man United sent warning by ex-refs chief over big-money transfer after 'out of control' incident

Manchester United should still sign AC Milan's Rafael Leao, but the club will need to work closely with him to control his emotions.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that Michael Carrick has a big role to play should United acquire the winger's services this summer.

The 26-year-old appears to have issued a come-get-me plea when speaking about his future in Italy, with dreams of a switch to the Premier League at some point in his career.

As well as the Red Devils, Arsenal are also said to be in the race for the Portugal international, though both clubs could have concerns after he was sent off in a friendly against Chile on Saturday, 6 June.

Man United to have concerns over Rafael Leao's emotions

Leao lasted just 45 minutes before being handed his marching orders, having lashed out at Chile's Ivan Roman on the stroke of half-time.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former referee said: "What's important is that, first of all, the player's out of control, and that is probably because something's said or something's actioned against him.

"The passion comes through; it's a reaction. I have seen players with in-discipline records coming into the English Premier League.

"And in fairness, managers and coaches are doing a really good job bringing them into line with what their expectations are, and working with the players to actually ensure that the concentration is on play rather than on volatility.

"I don't think this should stop Man United from making a bid for a player who‘s got a bit of passion and other skillsets that he has.

"When Premier League clubs have all the information they've got now, the threshold to act before they make a bid is, ‘Do they fit into these sort of tables of criteria in terms of information?' So, bring it on."

Everything Leao has said about the Red Devils

Leao would certainly add a new dimension to Carrick's attack next season, but it might shift Matheus Cunha's current role in the team.

Supporters at the Theatre of Dreams will already be confident of securing the winger's signature due to finally having Champions League football back at the stadium.

In addition to that, the AC Milan star has previously spoken very positively about the Red Devils, and especially former superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

Speaking in an interview, he said: "I like (Man) United because my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, so back then I used to watch him."

He also added that he has a soft spot for current Premier League champions, Arsenal, so that could throw a spanner in the works for Man United.