Top News

Manchester United have reportedly suffered a setback in their pursuit of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, as the Portuguese international has clarified his stance on his future with the Rossoneri.

The 26-year-old Portugal striker endured a disappointing season under Massimiliano Allegri, often being deployed as a central forward rather than his preferred left-wing position.

Earlier this month, reports suggested that AC Milan were dissatisfied with Leao’s performances, opening the door for a potential summer sale. Manchester United were among the clubs monitoring the situation closely, having long admired the player.

Speculation indicated that an offer in the region of €50 million might be enough to secure Leao’s signature this summer.

Leao outlines his position regarding a summer transfer

However, reports claim that Leao has informed Milan’s special advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic of his desire to remain at San Siro. Following Allegri’s recent dismissal, Leao is said to be determined to re-establish himself as one of the club’s key players.

Allegri, 58, was relieved of his duties after Milan’s 2-1 home defeat to Cagliari on the final day of the season, a result that cost the Rossoneri a place in next season’s Champions League.

Leao appears to believe that a managerial change could provide him with an opportunity to rediscover his best form in his preferred position on the wing.

Manchester United suffer a transfer blow

Leao’s statement seemingly rules out a move to the Premier League this summer. Nonetheless, Manchester United could still explore a potential bid, given that the forward has only two years remaining on his current contract. However, the club may be better off targeting alternative attacking options due to Leao’s inconsistency in Milan colours.

Michael Carrick’s side have been linked with Greek international Christos Tzolis, who has admitted it would be difficult to turn down a move to Old Trafford. Jarrod Bowen has also emerged as a potential target following West Ham United’s relegation to the Championship.

Rafael Leao names his two favourite Premier League clubs amid rising transfer rumours from AC Milan

Leao appears increasingly destined to leave AC Milan after the club failed to qualify for the 2026-27 edition of the Champions League. The Portuguese international has revealed which Premier League clubs he favours ahead of the summer transfer window.

Leao expresses admiration for Manchester United and Arsenal

The former Serie A MVP and Scudetto winner has scored 80 competitive goals during his seven seasons with the Rossoneri. However, following a difficult 2025-26 campaign in which Milan missed out on Champions League qualification despite spending much of the season in second place, speculation over his future has intensified.

Reports suggest that clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and Barcelona could all express interest if Leao becomes available this summer. It is also claimed that he has no interest in joining Galatasaray, Fenerbahce, or clubs in the Saudi Pro League, despite rumours of interest from those leagues.

Amid ongoing speculation, Leao recently appeared on the Cernucci Podcast, where he discussed his favourite Premier League teams. “Yes, of course,” he replied when asked if he watches the Premier League regularly. When pressed on which teams he supports, Leao laughed before answering, “I like Manchester United because my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, so I used to watch them a lot.” He then added, “I also like Arsenal.”

AC Milan striker Rafael Leao unhappy with Gerry Cardinale’s comments, stands firm on summer transfer stance

AC Milan’s position regarding Rafael Leao became clearer after a meeting between club owner Gerry Cardinale and members of the media at the Four Seasons Hotel in Milan on Monday. Following in Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s footsteps, Cardinale reportedly indicated that the Portuguese star’s time at the club could be coming to an end.

Rumours suggest that even a modest offer of around €40 million could tempt Milan to sell Leao. However, such leaks were deemed risky since evaluations of this nature should involve the CEO, sporting director, and head coach. As one insider put it, “It’s like saying a house is broken when you’re trying to sell it.”

Unwelcome comments spark frustration

It is understandable that these remarks reached Leao, who nevertheless ended the season as Milan’s top league scorer with nine goals, despite spending much of the campaign out of position. Naturally, he is displeased with the situation—especially with a crucial summer ahead as he focuses on the World Cup with Portugal.

Leao has two years left on his contract and is open to considering offers from the Premier League or La Liga should significant proposals arrive. However, at present, he is not interested in moves to Turkey or Saudi Arabia.

For Cardinale’s “off the record” comments to come true, two conditions must be met: a substantial offer must be made to the player, and the buying club must meet AC Milan’s valuation. Without both conditions fulfilled, Leao will stay at San Siro.

Regarding interest from Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, exploratory talks have reportedly taken place between representatives of the Turkish clubs and Leao’s entourage, though nothing concrete has materialised. Additionally, his name has reportedly been used as part of campaign promises by certain presidential candidates.