Ruben Amorim has told Rafael Leao that he is "lucky" to be with AC Milan amid speculation over his future. Manchester United were one of the teams credited with an interest.
The club have since distanced themselves from a move, but the Portugal international continues to be linked with an exit from Milan. Turkish side Fenerbahce are the team most heavily linked, with reports that they are in talks over a deal, with Milan setting an asking price of around €50million (£43m).
Leao joins squad in Australia
Despite the talk over his future, Leao has joined up with his teammates in Australia following his post World Cup break. He is expected to be involved in the pre-season friendly meeting with Inter on Wednesday (12pm kick-off).
Ahead of that game, former United boss Amorim has sent a clear message to the midfielder when speaking about his future.
"Rafa is lucky to be at a club like Milan, so he should be happy," he said, via TuttoMercatoWeb. "I feel that he's happy and motivated.
"I don't know what will happen between now and the end of the window, but I feel the group is really united. I haven't heard or seen any difference in Leao compared to the other lads."
Amorim focused on Serie A start
Amorim was appointed as Milan boss earlier this summer and is preparing for his first season in Serie A. Despite facing a Milan derby in pre-season, the manager’s full focus is on the first competitive game.
"Being pre-season champions isn't important," he said. "The only thing that really counts is when the referee blows for kick-off in Turin."
Just under a year after leaving United, the Portuguese will have a reunion on August 15 when United take on Milan in a pre-season friendly as both sides prepare for the new season.
United will hope to have some new players feature in that match, with midfielder Youri Tielemans returning from his post World Cup break this week. The club have also been linked with several other possible transfers including Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall.
