Manchester United’s pursuit of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao has taken another twist. The Red Devils remain in the market for a new left-forward, with the situation compounded by the 2-0 defeat to Hull City on opening day.
Michael Carrick opted for a front three of Patrick Dorgu, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo for the game. The Dane had been a revelation in the left-forward role last season and once again started in the position against the Tigers.
However, Dorgu failed to have an impact and was subsequently replaced by Marcus Rashford at the break. While the Englishman had a decent outing, his future remains unclear.
This situation has prompted talk of United investing in a new left-forward in the coming days. One player who has been linked with a move to Old Trafford all summer is Leao.
United have been linked with Leao for a while
Leao is coming off a decent campaign with the Rossoneri, finishing with 10 goals and three assists in 31 appearances across competitions.
Rafael Leao Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 29 | 23 | 9 | 3 | 5 | - | 1,861' |
| Italy Cup | 2 | 2 | 1 | - | - | - | 107' |
| Supercoppa Italiana | - | - | - | - | - | - | - |
| Total | 31 | 25 | 10 | 3 | 5 | - | 1,968' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
While he prefers to operate in the left-forward role, the Portuguese operated mostly through the middle last season. That, however, does not seem to have deterred United, who have been hot on his heels for a while.
Leao has pace to burn, knows his way to goal and is entering his prime, attributes that appear to have endeared the player to the Old Trafford hierarchy. It also makes him a suitable replacement for Rashford, whose stay at the Theatre of Dreams beyond this summer cannot be guaranteed yet.
A previous report relayed by The Peoples Person states that Leao dreams of joining the Red Devils. However, a contrasting update has now emerged.
Leao decides his next destination
According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, Leao will only leave AC Milan to join Galatasaray this summer. Sharing the news on X, the journalist wrote: “Leão has already informed AC Milan that if he were to leave the club, it would only be for Galatasaray.”
“Two offers have been rejected in the last few hours. It’s either stay until his contract expires or move to Turkey.”
The Peoples Person have recently relayed reports suggesting that a deal could be possible for £43 million. However, it now appears that the Portuguese could be heading to Turkey instead.
Final Thoughts
United are set for an intense end to the summer transfer window, with several targets still on the radar. However, the Red Devils are unlikely to plan a late hijack for Leao, especially since there appear to be concerns regarding his attitude.
🔴⚫️ Leão has already informed AC Milan that if he were to leave the club, it would only be for Galatasaray. Two offers have been rejected in the last few hours.
⌚️ It’s either stay until his contract expires or move to Turkey. #mercato pic.twitter.com/zPmUV3Z3qj
— Sacha Tavolieri (@sachatavolieri) August 24, 2026
The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 6/10
Why?
✅ Reported by a source with a decent Manchester United track record.
✅ Player remains linked with a move away from AC Milan.
⚠️ No official confirmation from club.
TPP view
We believe Rafael Leao is likely to leave AC Milan this summer. However, we are not convinced that he would only consider a move to Galatasaray.
Featured images Marco Luzzani via Getty Images
