A left-winger signing was one that Manchester United were expected to pursue this summer.
Marcus Rashford was expected to leave on a permanent deal, with many predicting a move to Barcelona, where he had been a massive hit.
His departure looked set to leave United without a natural left winger, which would have left the 20-time English champions with little choice but to target options in that position to bolster Michael Carrick‘s squad.
However, weeks into the summer transfer window, uncertainty now surrounds United’s plans for their left wing. There are suggestions that Rashford may, after all, stay, a twist that has left many surprised.
That said, it is not the most surprising twist concerning United’s left wing, given a revelation from Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, as quoted by Sempre Milan, which reported United’s interesting response to a golden chance to sign Rafael Leao.
Rafael Leao gets Man United response
Apparently, the Portuguese winger, dubbed “magical” by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, had “Clubs approached by a well-known intermediary – seeking a new ‘luxury home’ for the player in London, Manchester, or the surrounding areas – have responded with a polite but firm “no, thanks.” Arsenal, with whom a video call took place as recently as late May, were among the first to decline.”
Such a rejection will be frustrating for Leao, who had been hoping for a fresh start elsewhere.
United and Arsenal not convinced
He even publicly appealed to United and Arsenal to come and get him, but neither club appears interested, likely reflecting his attitude and subpar form in recent months.
One of the most dangerous wingers on his day, and available for as little as £43 million, Leao was expected to be an opportunity too good to ignore. That, however, does not seem to be the case.
A big World Cup performance could have earned him a move, but he is not currently central to Roberto Martinez’s Portugal plans.
That said, the Italian source suggests Galatasaray could instead be the ones to strike a deal with AC Milan for his services.
For United, the Rashford situation may need to be resolved first. Whatever happens with the academy graduate will then determine whether a deal for top winger target Crysencio Summerville is pursued.
Featured images Marco Luzzani via Getty Images
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