Liverpool and Man United are interested in signing AC Milan star Rafael Leao, according to new reports.
The Portuguese sensation has been in superb form for Milan over the past two seasons. In 2020/21, he netted 11 goals and provided 10 assists in Serie A.
In this campaign, he has four goals and four assists in nine league appearances. In Europe, he has two assists in four Champions League games, but is yet to score.
The 23-year-old can play centrally, but has operated in a wide left role more often for Milan this season.
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Leao has interest from several clubs, according to Italian outlet CalcioMercato. One of those clubs is Liverpool, who appear to be in the market for a new forward player. Furthermore, Man United are also credited with an interest.
He has been described as "electric" by The Athletic, and the forward has been compared to football legends such as Ronaldo Nazario and Cristiano Ronaldo in the past. Former Sporting Lisbon coach, Tiago Fernandes, who was with Leao at the Portuguese club, told Tuttomercatoweb (quotes via FotMob) last season: "Leao has the power of Ronaldo. He has the talent to solve matches on his own.
"He reminds me of the 'Phenomenon' [Ronaldo], with speed, technique and explosiveness in decisive moments, qualities that, this season, have emerged every game to drag Milan towards great results."
He continued: "I can assure you that only Cristiano Ronaldo had the same talent as him at that age. It is very exciting. It repays the many hours of work spent together on the pitch at Sporting."
Can Liverpool or Man United sign Rafael Leao?
CalcioMercato also report that Leao currently has a release clause of €150 million in his Milan contract, which expires in 2024. That could potentially price him out of any impending big move for the time being.
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It is claimed that Milan "want to close [a new contract] as soon as possible", and that Leao does want to stay.
However, there are other factors in play. These include Leao's agent, Jorge Mendes.
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The same source adds that other top clubs are circling around the player during negotiations, including Liverpool, United, PSG and Manchester City.
But it appears those clubs may have to act quickly and decisively to seal a deal, with Milan keen to keep their player at the San Siro.
Topics: Liverpool, AC Milan, Manchester United, Premier League
Ryan Smart