Man Utd handed Rafael Leao boost as AC Milan agree exit terms

Manchester United have been handed encouragement in their pursuit of Rafael Leao after AC Milan reportedly agreed to sanction his departure this summer. Sky Sport Italia claims the Serie A club will let the winger go for a fee in the region of £51-60million, should a suitable offer arrive.

The 27-year-old, currently on World Cup duty with Portugal, has made clear his desire to leave the San Siro this summer having spent seven years at the club. United are understood to be admirers of the Portugal international as they look to strengthen their forward line under new head coach Michael Carrick.

Leao ready for a “new challenge”

Speaking to Sport TV, Leao explained his reasons for wanting to move on from Milan. He said: “I think I gave Milan everything I could give. It is a club that helped me grow a lot and supported me through difficult moments. I am happy to have left my mark on the club’s history.”

He added: “Everyone has their dreams, their challenges, the things they want, the goals they want to achieve. And I also want to take on a new challenge in a new league.”

Any deal at the reported valuation would represent a significant profit for Milan, who paid Lille £42.4million to sign Leao back in 2019. Sky Sport Italia reports that the Italian club would prefer a permanent sale but could be open to a loan with an obligation to buy next summer if that proves the only route to a deal.

Carrick still waiting on first signing

United have yet to complete a signing since Carrick took charge on a two-year deal, though a move for Atalanta midfielder Ederson is reportedly close. That £35million transfer is expected to be finalised once Brazil’s involvement at the World Cup comes to an end.

Strengthening the midfield is seen as a priority following Casemiro’s exit and Manuel Ugarte’s long-term injury, with United thought to be eyeing at least one further addition in that area. Leao’s situation, however, points to United also being active in the market for attacking reinforcements before the transfer window closes.

Mee commits future to Old Trafford

Elsewhere, United have tied down goalkeeper Dermot Mee to a new two-year contract after his previous deal expired this week. The 23-year-old, born in Birmingham and a Northern Ireland youth international, is yet to make a first-team appearance for the club but has featured 27 times for United’s Under-21s.

Mee has previously gained senior experience out on loan, including four appearances for Altrincham in the National League during the 2022/23 season, as well as spells with Trafford, Runcorn Linnets and Witton Albion. In a statement, the club said Mee “will continue to provide excellent support and competition for the goalkeeper group.”