Manchester United Scouts Rafael Leao in Key Match Against Juventus

Manchester United reportedly sent a scout to watch AC Milan star Rafael Leao in action against Juventus on Sunday. The two old rivals will lock horns at San Siro in one of the most anticipated showdowns of the European weekend. Leao is expected to lead the line for Milan, but he’ll be facing a daunting task, as he’ll be up against Gleison Bremer, yet another Serie A standout who has been on Man Utd’s watchlist.

Man United Scout Will Be Monitoring Rafael Leao Against Milan

After seven years at the club, Leao could finally be destined to leave Milan this summer. The Portuguese attacker’s success at San Siro reached its climax in 2022, when he spearheaded the club’s charge towards their first Scudetto title in 11 years. That achievement earned him the Serie A MVP of the Year Award.

The legendary Luka Modric described his younger teammate as ‘one of the best in the world’, hailing him for his ‘amazing talent’.

However, the 26-year-old’s relationship with the fanbase has greatly deteriorated in recent years, hitting rock bottom a couple of weeks ago when he was jeered off while leaving the pitch during Milan’s 0-3 defeat to Udinese.

The Portugal international is also struggling to perform to his best in Max Allegri’s 3-5-2 system, which forced him into a central role.

As reported earlier this week, Leao’s situation piqued the interest of Man Utd, who are searching the market for a new right-footed left-winger, which is the role he excels at. According to Tuttosport (via Milan News), United have sent a scout to watch the player in action on Sunday evening against Juventus.

Milan’s Asking Price for Leao

Earlier this season, Michael Carrick admitted the squad lacks an inverted left winger, as Matheus Cunha isn’t considered a pure winger, as he tends to cut to the centre.

Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell have been keeping tabs on several profiles, including RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande. However, the young Ivorian’s price tag could exceed €100 million (£87m), making him a potentially unattainable profile for MUFC, who must also invest heavily in midfield.

On the other hand, Leao is no longer considered ‘untouchable’ at Milan, who are reportedly willing to sell the attacker for €50 million (£43m) and €60 million (£52m), with his contract expiring in 2028. He also attracted interest from Barcelona and the Saudi Pro League.

While Leao has all the technical attributes required to be considered a truly elite player, he has also been criticised for his complacent approach at times, a characteristic that also hampered the careers of several stars who played for Man Utd in recent years.