Manchester United and City Set for Summer Battle Over AC Milan Star Leao
Manchester United and Manchester City are preparing to go head-to-head in pursuit of AC Milan’s dynamic winger Rafael Leao during the upcoming summer transfer window. Reports suggest both clubs are willing to invest around €70m (£58m) for the Portuguese international.
The situation at Old Trafford has been particularly challenging since Ruben Amorim’s appointment as manager. After a significant £180m summer investment and Erik ten Hag’s departure in October, the team continues to struggle, securing only five victories in 16 Premier League matches under Amorim’s leadership.
Currently positioned 14th in the Premier League after 27 matches, United’s recent victory over Ipswich has brought them closer to the top four than the relegation zone. The club’s hierarchy is backing Amorim’s vision, having already secured Patrick Dorgu from Lecce in January.
Transfer Strategy and Financial Considerations
Key developments in the Leao pursuit:
• AC Milan has reduced their asking price from €100m to €70m
• Both Manchester clubs have the financial capability to complete the deal
• Leao’s relationship with current Milan manager Conceicao is reportedly strained
• Barcelona’s interest adds complexity to the transfer situation
Meanwhile, Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson has made a controversial suggestion regarding United’s financial future, proposing the sale of Old Trafford to stabilize the club’s finances. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining managerial stability and allowing time for implemented systems to work.
The INEOS ownership faces several challenges:
• Ongoing staff restructuring
• Dan Ashworth situation and £4m payout
• Implementation of new playing style
• Injury concerns affecting tactical options
Players like Luke Shaw remain crucial to Amorim’s preferred 3-4-3 system, though injuries have hampered the team’s ability to fully adapt to the new tactical approach.
The competition for Leao’s signature promises to be one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer stories, with both Manchester clubs viewing the Portuguese star as a potential catalyst for improvement in their respective campaigns.
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