The summer transfer window is not yet open but the scramble for AC Milan winger Rafael Leao has already begun in earnest. Both Manchester United and Liverpool have now made contact with the Italian club to explore the possibility of signing the Portuguese forward, with Fabrizio Romano confirming that calls have been made to understand the player's situation. The reported asking price is in the region of £60 million — a figure that Milan themselves consider to represent strong value for a player of Leao's quality.
Why Liverpool Want Him
For Liverpool, the urgency is obvious. Mohamed Salah has confirmed he will leave Anfield at the end of this season, bringing the curtain down on a nine-year chapter that produced 255 goals and every major trophy. Replacing a player of that calibre is a near-impossible task, but Leao's explosive pace, direct running, and ability to create chances on his own make him one of the most logical candidates available. At 26, he is entering the peak years of his career, and Liverpool believe he has the profile to fill the left-wing role Salah has made his own for nearly a decade.
United's Case for the Move
Manchester United see Leao differently — as a player who could bring much-needed creativity and directness to an attack that has misfired too often this season. His versatility across the front line appeals to the coaching staff, and his ability to beat defenders one-on-one is a quality United have been lacking. The reported £60m fee would represent one of United's bigger summer outlays but, given the squad's current struggles, they may feel the investment is warranted.
The Competition Is Fierce
Neither club has things their own way. Real Madrid are also said to be monitoring the situation, and Leao himself has given no indication of where his preference lies. At Milan, he has had a solid if not spectacular season — nine goals in Serie A as Milan sit second behind Inter — and the club are understandably reluctant to lose one of their best players. Any deal will require significant negotiation, and formal bids have not yet been submitted. But the direction of travel is clear: Leao's future at the San Siro is genuinely in doubt, and the Premier League's two most ambitious clubs are circling.
Transfer context: Rafael Leao, 26 | AC Milan | Reported valuation: £60m | Interested clubs: Manchester United, Liverpool, Real Madrid
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