Aheed Abrar
Chelsea to prioritise deal for Manchester United target Rafael Leao over Cristiano Ronaldo
Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo is not a priority for Chelsea as they look to sign AC Milan forward Rafael Leao, according to transfer news from CBS Sports (h/t Mirror).
The 23-year-old currently playing in Italy is also on the Red Devils’ radar. Thus, the Blues are looking to wrap up a deal for the former Sporting CP winger.
Chelsea were close to signing Ronaldo in the recent transfer window. However, Thomas Tuchel opted against it. And now, Graham Potter has a similar idea, with other forwards ahead in the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager’s wishlist over the five-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Leao is one of the options Potter has in his sights. The 23-year-old has developed into a quality player since arriving in Milan in the summer of 2019. In the current campaign, the forward has scored five goals and provided eight assists in 14 appearances for the Rossoneri.
On the other hand, Ronaldo is having a torrid time in Manchester this season. The 37-year-old has been relegated to a substitute role under Erik ten Hag. His form in front of goal has not been the best either.
The Portuguese great has started just twice for the Red Devils in the Premier League in the current campaign. Most of his starts have come in the Europa League. In 12 appearances in all competitions, the forward has scored two goals and has given one assist.
Ronaldo has also had troubles in recent weeks with the management. The Portuguese legend refused to come on as a substitute late in the game against Tottenham Hotspur. He proceeded to walk down the tunnel into the dressing room before the final whistle.
The 37-year-old was consequently suspended by Ten Hag and did not travel with the squad to Stamford Bridge for the Red Devils’ match against Chelsea.
More Manchester United News
- Louis van Gaal excludes Manchester United midfielder Donny van de Beek from provisional World Cup squad; Tyrell Malacia makes the cut
- AC Milan star Mike Maignan could be an option for Manchester United in their goalkeeper hunt
- Manchester United ‘will not sign’ replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo in January transfer window
Will Ronaldo leave Manchester in January? Only time will tell. If he does depart, will United pursue his compatriot Leao? It remains to be seen.
