Manchester United’s interest in Rafael Leao has been a topic of discussion in recent weeks. The attacker is now struggling and is at the centre of AC Milan’s goalscoring issues.
Sport Witness have covered the involvement of Jorge Mendes in a potential transfer. AC Milan are depending on the super-agent to find a new club for the attacker.
Through Mendes, Manchester United made initial contact to explore the conditions of a deal. The Red Devils have an excellent relationship with the agent, having landed Manuel Ugarte and Leny Yoro through his work.
A deal for Leao would be cheaper than it would have been in the past, but that’s because his star has faded.
Leao booed at the weekend
Calciomercato report that Leao’s performance against Atalanta was another ‘black mark’ on his season. Initially, he wasn’t expected to play but despite being given a start, he showed an ‘apathetic attitude’.
The game was crucial for the Rossoneri. Roma’s win over Parma had put them level on points with Milan, who found themselves fourth in the table. They lost 3-2 and are now at serious risk of missing out on Champions League football.
The outlet accuses Leao of ‘missed goals, poor play’ and he was booed when he was taken off in the second half.
Fans at the San Siro had held protests against CEO Giorgio Furlani before the game. The 26-year-old’s showing enraged them further and the loudest boos were heard when the Portugal international was substituted.
Calciomercato don’t end there, adding that Leao ‘slouched’ on the touchline.
Our take: Leao becoming easy target
This may alarm Manchester United, but AC Milan are struggling generally. They have won only three league games in nine, going from a title challenger to a team that could end up in a Conference League spot.
As is often the case, their best player takes the most flak. The issues are larger, as evident from the protests against Furlani and the RedBird ownership. Max Allegri’s system is also failing to bring the best out of Leao, who finds himself deeper and forced to cover more distance.
