Manchester United are reportedly preparing a bold and ambitious strategy as they step up their interest in AC Milan winger Rafael Leão ahead of the summer transfer window.
Instead of a straightforward cash deal, the club is considering a proposal that could include multiple first-team players as part of an exchange agreement, reflecting both the complexity and seriousness of the negotiations.
Leão remains one of Europe’s most highly regarded attacking talents. Despite experiencing an inconsistent season in Serie A, he continues to attract attention from top clubs across the continent due to his pace, skill, and proven attacking quality.
At one point, his market valuation reached as high as £152 million following a series of impressive performances for AC Milan, where he became a key figure in their forward line.
However, his recent dip in form has led to a significant reduction in valuation, with Milan now believed to be open to offers closer to £52 million ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Manchester United’s scouting department has maintained close observation of the Portuguese winger. Recent reports suggest club scouts were present during AC Milan’s goalless draw against Juventus at the San Siro, continuing their long-term assessment of his suitability for a potential move to Old Trafford.
This ongoing monitoring forms part of a wider recruitment plan aimed at strengthening United’s attacking options for the next season.
To make the deal more financially manageable, United are considering a player-plus-cash structure. Several names have emerged in early discussions, including Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee, and Manuel Ugarte.
These players could potentially be included depending on how negotiations evolve when the transfer window officially opens.
Rashford, who is currently on loan at Barcelona, has enjoyed a productive spell in Spain, contributing 13 goals and 13 assists across all competitions in 45 appearances. His performances have attracted renewed interest regarding his long-term future.
Meanwhile, Ugarte, who joined Manchester United from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024 for around £50 million, has struggled to secure a consistent starting role due to strong competition in midfield. Zirkzee, signed from Bologna for approximately £36.5 million, has also found it difficult to establish himself fully, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 71 appearances.
AC Milan are reportedly open to structured negotiations involving player exchanges, particularly if it helps them maintain squad balance while also meeting financial objectives.
Although Leão is still under contract until 2028 and remains an important part of their squad, club officials are no longer viewing him as completely untouchable.
Overall, Manchester United’s interest in Leão reflects a broader intention to reshape their attacking department with more directness, speed, and creativity.
The possibility of including multiple players in any deal highlights the scale of changes being considered at Old Trafford as they prepare for a potentially transformative summer transfer window.
