Transfer News: Manchester United sent scouts to watch Rafael Leao play against Chelsea
Manchester United are monitoring AC Milan forward Rafael Leao and sent scouts to watch the 23-year-old play against Chelsea in the Champions League, according to Mirror.
Erik ten Hag is said to be a big admirer of the Portuguese international, who has been compared to the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry.
Chelsea came out on the top in both the ties against Milan, winning 3-0 and 2-0 respectively in both legs. While Leao started both games, he failed to score or assist any goal and was largely kept quiet by the Blues’ defence – not the best audition, one must say.
It is hardly surprising to see United show interest in the young forward. The 23-year-old sees his current contract run out in 2024 and is refusing to put pen to paper a new deal.
The Portuguese international joined the Rossoneri in 2019 but gained the attention of everyone last season. Leao scored 11 goals and registered 10 assists in 34 league games to help his side lift the Scudetto and was also named the Serie A MVP player.
United could do with a player like the Portuguese on their side. Ronaldo is in the winter of his career, while Anthony Martial is very injury-prone. Adding Leao to lead the line with Marcus Rashford and Antony would make it one of the best in England and Europe.
But the Red Devils are not alone in their pursuit. Chelsea and Manchester City have also been keeping tabs on the winger and it will be wise for the club to step up their pursuit. Fans would like the winger to play for their side and not the other way around.
The last time the Reds signed a Portuguese with roots in the Sporting Lisbon academy, new pages were added to the club’s history. Cristiano Ronaldo has become a legend at the club while Bruno Fernandes has also made a big impact since signing in the winter of 2020.
More Manchester United News
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- Erik ten Hag tells Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford to be more clinical in front of goal
- Erik ten Hag sent ‘desperate text’ to bring Ajax youngster Brian Brobbey to Manchester United in the summer
Maybe Leao can follow in the same footsteps and have his own legacy at Old Trafford.
