BREAKING NEWS: coming from Fabrizio Romano, 🚨 JUST IN, Raphael Leao is reportedly high on Manchester United’s list of targets as a replacement for the departing Santos Anthony. With Anthony set to leave United, United are said to be willing to pay big money to bring in Leao from AC Milan. The Portuguese international has been in excellent form this season, and is seen as a perfect fit for the style of play at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, United’s new owner ‘Sir Jim’ Ratcliffe is said to be interested in bring to old Trafford. Manchester United Set Sights on Leao as Replacement for Departing Anthony – ‘Sir Jim’ to Pay Big to Land Portugal Star”.
Despite Manchester United’s disappointing results, with eight losses in 15 games, their worst start to a season since 1962/63, manager Erik ten Hag still enjoys the backing of the club’s board. However, he acknowledges the urgent need for improvement to meet the club’s standards and regain support from the fans.
To address these challenges, Ten Hag remains focused on both short-term and long-term goals, particularly in terms of player recruitment. Recent reports suggest that he is eyeing a £100m double deal in January to revitalize the team’s performance.
Looking ahead, Ten Hag is also considering ways to enhance the squad, with Brazilian winger Antony’s form under scrutiny following a disappointing spell. Despite Manchester United splashing out £85m to acquire him from Ajax in 2022, Antony has struggled to justify his hefty price tag.
Now, there are rumors circulating in Italy that Manchester United is planning to pursue AC Milan winger Rafael Leao in 2024 as an upgrade. Although Leao has shown promise, his recent performances have been below par, leading to speculation about his future at AC Milan.
Both Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly interested in signing Leao, with a potential offer of £100m (€115m) likely to tempt AC Milan to sell. While a move in January seems unlikely, Italian media sources suggest that a transfer could materialize in the summer window.
If Leao were to join Manchester United, it could cast doubt on the futures of both Antony and Jadon Sancho. However, Ten Hag sees Leao as a viable option to strengthen the team’s attacking options, potentially playing off the flank opposite to Marcus Rashford.
Leao boasts an impressive track record, with 46 goals and 40 assists in 176 appearances for AC Milan, demonstrating his quality and consistency. In contrast, Antony has struggled to make an impact at Old Trafford, with just eight goals and four assists in 54 appearances.
Given the significant investment in Antony, a potential move to upgrade the winger raises questions about Ten Hag’s judgment, considering his involvement in bringing Antony to Manchester United in 2022. However, with the team’s performance faltering, the pursuit of new talent becomes a priority for the club’s leadership.
