AC Milan and Portugal winger Rafael Leão has reportedly revealed his dream move to the Premier League, after virtually confirming his departure from the Rossoneri.
The 26-year-old has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Milan in recent years, with reports suggesting that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona have all been impressed by his talent.
Leão has recorded 80 goals and 65 assists in 291 appearances for Milan. He scored 10 goals last season as the Italian side finished fifth in Serie A and consequently missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification for a second consecutive season, a situation that led to the dismissal of Massimiliano Allegri.
Oliver Glasner, the current Crystal Palace manager, is considered the favorite to take over the vacant position in northern Italy, although he may not get the opportunity to work with Leão.
Speaking to Portuguese media, the 26-year-old admitted that he is ready for a new challenge.
“I’m proud to have made history at Milan, but I want a new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league. I gave everything for Milan, but the time has come to try a different challenge.”
According to Football365, Manchester United have been informed of the player’s availability, while manager Michael Carrick is eager to improve both the quality and depth of the squad ahead of a demanding season in which the team will compete in four competitions – the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Premier League, and Champions League.
Carrick and United’s football department are reportedly targeting two midfielders, a left winger, a left-back, and potentially a striker and a central defender.
Manchester United’s 2025 summer transfer window was widely viewed as successful, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Senne Lammens, and Benjamin Šeško contributing to the club’s third-place finish in the Premier League.
Leão has previously spoken about his admiration for Manchester United, revealing that he followed the club closely as a child.
“Yes, of course I like Manchester United because my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, so I used to watch their matches back then,” he said.
“I also like Arsenal,” he added.
If he were to join United, Leão would compete with Cunha and Patrick Dorgu for a starting role on the left wing.
Leão, whose contract with Milan runs until the summer of 2028, is reportedly valued at around £43 million.
The Portuguese international has previously played alongside Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot for Portugal.
United continue to be linked with Ederson of Atalanta, with reports suggesting that a £38 million deal is close to being completed.
Speaking in 2023, Leão discussed the possibility of playing in the Premier League.
“I think every player wants to play in the Premier League because it is a very competitive league. It has attractive football, big teams, and a worldwide audience. Serie A is currently in a very good position in the football world, but in the future, I would definitely say the Premier League.”
Leão concluded:
“As a footballer, my goal is to win the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or. As an artist, I don’t think too much about these things personally; I just let everything flow naturally.”
