Manchester United have just received clarity on the future of Rafael Leao amid transfer rumours linking him to the club.
The midfield is the priority for Man Utd, but the left wing is also a position that the club needs more options in.
Matheus Cunha did a brilliant job under Michael Carrick, while Patrick Dorgu is also a versatile option for doing a job there.
A natural left-winger would add much-needed depth to that position, and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has been linked of late.
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Rafael Leao declares his future plans
Rafael Leao is an exciting, if slightly untapped option for Man Utd due to a number of reasons.
His age (26), playing style (exciting dribbler), and nationality (strong Portuguese contingent in the Man Utd dressing room) all make him an ideal fit.
However, his lack of output for Milan in the last two seasons, the wages he could command, plus his lack of familiarity with English football work against him.
This is a deal which makes sense only in the “Ederson” bracket, which means as a rotational player, on a cheaper fee, and palatable wages.
That might be more possible now than it was a week ago, because Leao has declared his intentions to leave AC Milan.
He said: “I’m proud as I made history at AC Milan, but I want a new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league. I did my best for Milan, but it’s time to try another challenge.”
Leao publicly announcing exit is a dilemma for Man Utd
Leao announcing his exit publicly is good for United in the sense that they might be able to get him for cheaper now.
How much do you think Man Utd will spend in this window?
It can be revealed that £243m will already be leaving Old Trafford this summer…
Having said that, Leao’s words aren’t what you expect from a player who has barely turned up for his club in the last two seasons.
Ineos have done a great job resetting the tone of the dressing room in the last two years, and Leao’s comments don’t pass the professionalism check.
Leao’s dream is Man Utd, but players like Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko also dreamt of United without leaving their then club out to dry.
They all went about their transfers professionally, despite performing much better than Leao has for Milan.
It’s a background check Ineos must do on Leao’s character and personality because just because a move is easy to make doesn’t mean United should make it.
His declaration to leave presents a dilemma for the club.
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