Manchester United Ready to Include Rashford or Zirkzee in Bid to Sign Rafael Leao
Manchester United are intensifying efforts to land Rafael Leao, exploring unconventional transfer strategies that could involve sending first-team players to AC Milan.
Manchester United consider offering Rashford, Zirkzee, or Ugarte in a swap deal for Rafael Leao as AC Milan lower their asking price.
The Premier League side is determined to reinforce its attacking line ahead of next season, identifying Leao as a key addition on the left flank. Instead of meeting a high transfer fee outright, the club is weighing up a player-exchange approach to reduce financial outlay.
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Reports indicate that Manuel Ugarte, Marcus Rashford, and Joshua Zirkzee could be included in negotiations. United scouts have recently monitored Leao during a Serie A match against Juventus, reinforcing their interest in the winger.
Although Milan typically favors direct transfer fees, the possibility of acquiring proven Premier League players could reshape discussions. Leao remains tied to the Italian club until 2028, earning a net salary of 5.5 million plus bonuses—terms United are capable of matching or surpassing.
Despite a release clause set at €175 million, Milan are reportedly prepared to negotiate from a significantly reduced starting point of around €50 million. This shift reflects a cooling relationship between Leao and club leadership, following inconsistent performances that have impacted his standing.
Fan dissatisfaction has also been evident, with the winger recently receiving boos during a substitution. Combined with United’s tactical need for stronger presence on the left, momentum is building toward a potential summer move.
Zirkzee stands out as a particularly relevant option in talks, given Milan’s earlier interest before his switch to England. Limited to 551 minutes across 21 appearances this season, he could be open to a return to Italy.
Rashford’s situation adds further complexity. Currently on loan at Barcelona, his long-term future remains uncertain despite a €30 million purchase option. Meanwhile, Ugarte has struggled for regular involvement and is reportedly being offered to clubs across Europe by agent Jorge Mendes.
Should Leao depart, Milan would be forced into a broader attacking rebuild under Massimiliano Allegri, as they prepare for Champions League football. The club is already targeting Alexander Sorloth of Atletico Madrid to strengthen their forward line.
While Milan may still prefer a cash-based deal, acquiring players like Zirkzee or Rashford could immediately address squad gaps. United are also monitoring Morgan Rogers as an alternative, but his high valuation makes Leao a more cost-effective option in comparison.
