Rafael Leao will hold off on making any decisions about his future until Portugal’s World Cup involvement has concluded, according to journalist Gianluigi Longari.
The news follows a public announcement from the attacker last week confirming his intention to leave AC Milan this summer, bringing an end to a seven-year stay at the club.
Leao addressed the decision in a conversation with Sport TV, leaving little doubt about his desire to move on from the Italian giants.
“I think I’ve given Milan everything I could give,” he said. “It’s been a club that helped me grow a lot, that supported me in the tough moments. I’m happy to have managed to write my name in the club’s history.”
He went further in explaining the motivation behind his decision, making clear that personal ambition is driving his desire for a new challenge.
“Everyone has their dreams, their challenges, the things they desire, the goals they want to reach. And I, too, want to try a new challenge in a new league,” Leao added.
The 26-year-old has also hinted at a preference for Manchester United, citing a personal connection to the club through his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking to Cernucci, Leao said: “I often watch the Premier League. I like Manchester United, especially because of Cristiano Ronaldo, who is my idol, but also Arsenal is a team I follow on TV.”
United had already been tracking Leao prior to his public declaration, with reports in recent weeks suggesting he would be available in the summer transfer window.
His willingness to openly declare his desire to leave Milan is expected to make a deal more straightforward, as the club will feel pressure to facilitate a move for their talisman.
Milan face a difficult negotiation, however, with Leao currently tied to a contract running until 2028, meaning the Rossoneri hold significant leverage over any potential transfer fee.
United are said to be conducting thorough market research as manager Michael Carrick looks to build squad depth ahead of the club’s return to the Champions League next season.
The attack is not the primary area of concern, with midfield considered a higher priority, but the recent sale of Rasmus Hojlund combined with the expected departures of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho has created a clear need for reinforcements.
Leao has registered 80 goals and 65 assists across 291 appearances for Milan in all competitions, establishing himself as one of the most productive attackers in European football.
The post Rafael Leao To Delay Transfer Decision Until After Portugal’s World Cup Campaign appeared first on Gooner Daily.
