Whilst the majority of the football world is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, Manchester United’s hierarchy are working on the best way to navigate the summer transfer market and get the relevant players in and out of Old Trafford for the upcoming Premier League season. A raft of names have been linked with joining Michael Carrick’s squad for the new campaign, with many of them involved in the international tournament that gets underway this week. One of these is wantaway AC Milan star Rafael Leao, who has become a target for many European clubs after stating his desire to leave the Italian giants in this window. Rush of blood in warm-up game Leao is currently warming up for the World Cup with Portugal but did not get his preparations off to the best start, as he was sent off for throwing a punch at an opponent in the friendly game against Chile at the weekend. The show of ill-discipline will fortunately not cost the forward game time in terms of suspension, but will no doubt impact Roberto Martinez’s decision-making, with red cards in tournament football often resulting in irreversible damage. Portugal were otherwise impressive in the warm-up game, with United skipper Bruno Fernandes continuing his fine form at club level with a wonderful winning goal for his nation. As reported by The Mirror, Fernandes has since sent a public message of support to his teammate, who apologised for his outburst on social media after the game. Leao wrote on Instagram: “Regarding my expulsion. I simply wanted to protect my colleague, never with the intention of hurting the opponent! Thank you to all the Portuguese who came to Jamor, amazing atmosphere, we’re still together.” Bruno’s one-word response of “Together” showed solidarity with the 26-year-old, who will be desperate to impress in the U.S. to not just help his nation but secure a big move after the tournament. Premier League move wanted Leao has admitted he would love to play in the Premier League and believes his style would suit the English top flight as he looks for a “new challenge” outside of Serie A. “For my style of football, I think the Premier League or La Liga would make more of my talent, as a player. If a Premier League opportunity were to come along, I would be very happy,” he was quoted. It is understood Milan are willing to part ways with one of their star men and would accept a bid in the region of £43 million for a player who has two years left on his contract at the San Siro. Although erratic at times, the price looks decent market value for a wide man who, when on form, is undoubtedly one of the best in Europe. Additionally, United are in the market for a player of Leao’s profile but are heavily focusing on addressing their midfield issues before splashing any cash on the attack, which they heavily improved last summer. Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are hotly linked with making an official move, with Premier League champions Arsenal reportedly holding an interest too. It might be that the Milan magician’s relationship with Fernandes helps push a deal over the line in the coming weeks, with the pair clearly having each other’s backs on the national stage. Both players will be hoping for World Cup glory in the coming months and might find themselves playing together in red under the lights of the Theatre of Dreams if INEOS decide Leao is worth a gamble in the market. Featured image by Michael Regan/Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Conner Botterill Conner Botterill has been with The Peoples Person for three years. A lifelong red with degrees in Sport and Journalism and Philosophy and Psychology through the Open University. His favourite match attended was the unforgettable night in Paris in 2019 under the guidance of one of his idols, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Conner still believes he has a chance of making United’s first team through his 5-a-side career.
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