From Italy: Manchester City linked with 2023 transfer for Serie A forward

As expected, Manchester City’s transfer business over the course of the most recent summer window was phenomenal.

There is no better example of the club's astuteness in the transfer window than the signing of Erling Haaland, who has now scored a staggering 13 goals in seven games for his new club this term.

The Norwegian international has shrugged off any doubts over a potential inability to adapt to Pep Guardiola’s system, and on form, he has indisputably been the best striker in the world.

Julian Alvarez, signed in January by the Premier League champions, has also taken to Manchester City like a duck to water and is making a stronger case, week in, week out to become a firm starter in the side.

As for Kalvin Phillips and Stefan Ortega Moreno, the pair have also looked like instant fits at the Etihad Stadium.

However, if there is one box that has been left unticked this summer, it is the arrival of a direct winger.

With Jack Grealish and Riyad Mahrez’s uninspiring displays against Borussia Dortmund in Manchester City’s most recent win highlighting the need for a more proactive threat out wide, it is easy to see why the club may look to target the signing of a player with such a profile next summer.

Considering Phil Foden is regarded by some as a natural number 10 by trade, and Cole Palmer gradually being eased in to proceedings, the side is in desperate need of such an option, especially with the sales of Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Jesus to Chelsea and Arsenal respectively in the summer.

However, a fresh revelation from Italy has now suggested that the club have their sights set on one of Serie A’s most complete wingers.

According to a report by Calciomercato, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Rafael Leao is appreciated by relevant officials at Manchester City.

It is claimed that while AC Milan are keen on extending the 23-year-old’s contract - which expires in the summer of 2024 - an agreement is yet to be reached between both player and club.

AC Milan forward Rafael Leão is ‘very much liked’ by #ManCity.

[@cmdotcom via @Sport_Witness]

— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) September 14, 2022

So far, the Portuguese international has started the 2022/23 season on fire, with three assists and four goals to his name in just seven matches.

Since moving to Milan from Sporting CP in 2019, Leao’s quick feet, movement in behind, and searing pace has garnered acclaim from both fans and pundits alike.

With Manchester City lacking a winger that possesses his traits at their disposal, a move for Rafael Leao would make sense on all levels, if he ultimately declines the chance to sign a contract extension at the San Siro.

Elsewhere, Manchester City are close to announcing a new deal for Phil Foden.

The England international has been in relatively lengthy talks with the club over a new and improved deal, and talks reached a positive conclusion over the past few weeks.