One of Serie A’s biggest talents has recently been linked with a move to Manchester United as the club look to strengthen their forward line.
Manchester United have made a strong start to the summer transfer window, securing Matheus Cunha early and actively working on a deal for Bryan Mbeumo.
Both players would add depth and creativity to the attacking midfield, but the club’s most urgent priority remains signing a proven centre-forward.
Rasmus Højlund struggled to find form last season, and while Joshua Zirkzee showed flashes of quality before his late-season injury, he tends to be more effective in a deeper role.
United have been linked with several strikers, but with Liam Delap now at Chelsea and moves for Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyökeres proving more complicated than expected, the club has turned its attention to alternative attacking targets.
Now, reports suggest that one of Serie A’s top players has been identified as United’s new priority signing.
Switching targets from Gyokeres to Leao
With the likes of Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony all being made available this summer, it means that United need to reinforce that area of the pitch.
According to CaughtOffside, United have made Rafael Leão their primary target this summer. With the Portuguese star registering 12 goals and 13 assists for Milan last season, he could help rejuvenate a front line that lacked attacking threat.
The 26-year-old is under contract until 2028, which includes a £150 million release clause. However, it is thought that Milan would consider offers of £68-85 million.
Man United are reportedly planning to submit an initial offer of around £60 million once they have a clearer view of their potential outgoings this summer.
Does Leao fit Amorim’s system?
There is no doubt that the 26-year-old would be a huge upgrade for the front line, with his ability to excel in one-on-one situations something that United have missed in recent seasons.
The major concern for any club signing the winger is his work rate, which has been criticised in the seasons preceding his breakthrough 2021-22 campaign, during which he won the Serie A MVP award.
His lack of tracking back and pressuring when out of possession doesn’t align with Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, which places a strong emphasis on an aggressive pressing system when out of possession.
Amorim has spoken at length about the physical demands of English football during his time at the club, and perhaps signing established Premier League players would benefit his side much more.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.