Barcelona could pull off another loan deal similar to Marcus Rashford's - this time for Rafael Leao. Leao is expected to leave AC Milan this summer, with Manchester United among a long list of clubs touted as potential destinations.
Leao Confirms Milan Exit
The Portuguese winger confirmed in May that he wants to leave Milan after seven years at the San Siro, having managed 80 goals and 65 assists in 291 appearances. The Italian club have since appointed former United head coach Ruben Amorim, whose well-known preference for wing-backs means Leao doesn't fit his system.
As a result, the 27-year-old looks set to move on, with his reduced asking price of £51million drawing considerable interest. La Gazzetta dello Sport report that Barcelona are a possible destination for the United target.
Barcelona's Interest
The Catalans have reportedly made enquiries over his availability, following club president Joan Laporta's keen interest in the player in recent years. Leao has also been offered to Barca by his agent several times in the past.
But while he would undeniably strengthen Hansi Flick's attacking options, the left-wing position is not considered a priority for the La Liga champions. This is down to Barca being well stocked in wide areas, with Raphinha already on the books and Anthony Gordon newly signed for a staggering £70m.
Loan Move Possibility
The Gordon deal was struck after the Blaugrana opted against triggering Rashford's option-to-buy clause, which would have secured the United forward for just £26m following his successful season-long loan. They are equally unlikely to pursue a permanent deal for Leao, given his price tag and the fact that striker Julian Alvarez remains their primary transfer target. That said, they could be open to market opportunities that present themselves, like Rashford's initial loan move.
Leao, who has just two years remaining on his contract, could be available on a loan deal should no club be willing to match Milan's asking price. A potential move to the Camp Nou may therefore not be entirely ruled out.
Potential Complications
The only major complication, should Barca look to employ the same approach used to bring Rashford in, is that Milan may only sanction a loan deal if it includes an obligation-to-buy clause — keen to avoid finding themselves in the same predicament United faced this summer with Rashford.
Leao's future is expected to be resolved in the coming weeks, with the winger set to shift his attention back to club football after Portugal were eliminated from the World Cup by Spain. A number of other Premier League sides and Saudi Pro League clubs are also said to be keeping tabs on the winger.
