Manchester United 'set sights on £124m Portugal international striker'

Manchester United are reportedly preparing to push ahead with a big-money move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao during this summer's transfer window.

The Red Devils will bring in at least one attacker in the upcoming market, with Anthony Martial and Jadon Sancho both expected to move on at the end of the 2023-24 campaign.

Amad Diallo and Facundo Pellistri could also be made surplus to requirements, while there remains speculation surrounding the futures of both Antony and Marcus Rashford, although it is unlikely that either will depart Old Trafford during the summer window.

According to Fichajes, Leao has been identified by the 20-time English champions as a leading target, and the club could battle Premier League rivals Arsenal for the 24-year-old's signature.

The report claims that Milan value the Portugal international at €145m (£124m), with the Red Devils therefore facing the prospect of having to break their transfer record to bring him in.

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Milan allegedly value Leao at €145m (£124m)

Leao started his professional career at Sporting Lisbon in 2017, but he only made five appearances for the Portuguese giants before moving to Lille in 2018.

The forward scored eight goals and registered two assists in 26 outings for the French outfit during the 2018-19 campaign ahead of a switch to Milan in August 2019.

The Portuguese has scored 55 goals and registered 48 assists in 201 appearances for his Italian side in all competitions, including 44 goals and 37 assists in 157 Serie A matches.

Leao has again been in impressive form for Milan this season, scoring 12 goals and registering 12 assists in 38 appearances in all competitions.

The attacker signed a new contract at San Siro last June, with his existing terms running until June 2028, but Man United are allegedly determined to bring him to the Premier League.

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Which other positions will Man United prioritise this summer?

The upcoming transfer window is expected to be busy for Man United, even if the club are unable to secure Champions League football for the 2024-25 campaign.

At least one new centre-back will be required this summer, with Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans both out of contract, while there remains uncertainty surrounding the futures of Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof.

A right-back will also arrive if Aaron Wan-Bissaka is allowed to depart, while midfielders Casemiro and Christian Eriksen may leave this summer, which would open up space to bring in a new player in that area of the field.

Sofyan Amrabat's loan deal from Fiorentina is unlikely to be made permanent, while Omari Forson only has a deal until the end of the season, so it could be a summer of huge change in every area of the field.

The spine of the team undoubtedly needs strengthening if the club are to enjoy a more successful 2024-25 campaign, but it remains to be seen whether Erik ten Hag keeps his job as head coach, with the Dutchman under huge pressure.