Rafael Leao has already chosen his 'dream' Premier League club as AC Milan exit nears

AC Milan and Portugal winger Rafael Leao has already revealed his dream Premier League move before all but confirming his Rossoneri exit.

Leao, 26, has been constantly linked with a move away from the Serie A giants in recent years, with reports suggesting Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Barcelona are all impressed by his talents.

The Portugal winger has registered 80 goals and 65 assists in 291 appearances for Milan, with 10 strikes coming last term as the Italians finished fifth in Serie A and, in doing so, missed out on Champions League football for a second successive campaign, leading to the sacking of Massimo Allegri.

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is the frontrunner to take up the vacancy in northern Italy, but he may not get the chance to work with Leao.

Speaking to Portuguese media, the 26-year-old has claimed he is ready for a move, saying: “I'm proud as I made history at AC Milan, but I want a new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league. I did my best for Milan, but it's time to try another challenge.”

According to Football365, United have been made aware of the player’s availability, with Michael Carrick keen to bolster the strength and depth of his squad ahead of a demanding season, as the side is set to compete on four fronts – the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Premier League and Champions League.

Carrick and United’s football department are keen to sign two midfielders, a left-winger, a left-back, as well as potentially bringing in both a striker and a centre-back.

United’s recruitment in the summer of 2025 was largely a success, with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Senne Lammens and Benjamin Sesko all contributing to the team’s third-place finish in the Premier League.

Leao has previously voiced his admiration for the club, explaining how he used to watch them as a child.

“Yeah, of course I like (Manchester) United because my idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, so back then I used to watch them,” he said.

“I like Arsenal as well.”

If he were to join United, he would compete with Cunha and Patrick Dorgu for a starting spot on the left flank.

Leao, who is contracted to Milan until the summer of 2028, is reportedly valued at around £43 million.

The Portuguese international has previously played alongside Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot for Portugal.

United also continue to be linked with Atalanta midfielder Ederson, with reports suggesting a £38 million deal is close.

What else has Rafael Leao said about playing Premier League?

Speaking back in 2023, Leao discussed the prospect of playing in the Premier League.

He told Gaffer: "I think every player wants to play in the Premier League because it’s a very competitive league. It has engaging football, great teams and a worldwide audience.

"Serie A is currently very well positioned in the football world, but I would definitely have to say the Premier League in the future."

Leao continued: "Football-wise, my goal is to win the Champions League and a Ballon d’Or. As an artist, I personally don’t think about it too much; I go with the flow."