According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, both Arsenal and Manchester United have set their sights on AC Milan’s Rafael Leao for a potential summer transfer. The 24-year-old, who joined Milan from LOSC Lille in 2019, has become a notable player in Serie A, playing a crucial part in Milan’s Scudetto victory a few years ago.

Leao has been on fire in recent games. He has scored an impressive 12 goals and providing 10 assists in 38 appearances across all competitions, after a bit of a slow start to the season. Both Arsenal and Manchester United have taken notice of his impressive form. They are displaying interest strengthening their attacking options during the upcoming transfer window.

Arsenal, specifically, are looking to add an attacker to their squad. They have identified Leao as a top priority. However, Milan values the Portuguese star at around £128 million, a fee that Arsenal is hesitant to meet as they also need to strengthen other areas of their squad. Meanwhile, it seems that Manchester United is determined to intensify their pursuit of Leao. This could potentially disrupt Arsenal’s plans. Both clubs see Leao as a valuable addition who could enhance their squads.

Arsenal And Man United Eyeing Move For £128m-rated Attacker

Although Leao is known for his attacking abilities, his defensive work rate has come under scrutiny. Both Arsenal and Manchester United prioritize players who can press aggressively in the opponent’s half. It is an area where Leao could potentially enhance his skills. Leao is primarily deployed on the left wing. His combination of pace, power, and dribbling ability make him a dangerous player in the final third. In addition to his ability to create chances for his teammates and finish off moves himself, he has proven to be an appealing option for both clubs.

It’s still uncertain if Arsenal or Manchester United will be able to reach an agreement with Milan. They are standing firm on their asking price for Leao. Both clubs are eager to bolster their squads in multiple areas, so the competition for the Portuguese star may heat up as the summer transfer window draws near.

What did Arteta say?

Mikel Arteta said after the game against Bayern Munich: “It was a really intense match. I think we started really well. We started to dominate it, to play in the opponents’ half and we generated some momentum, scored a really good goal with B. And there obviously was the moment in the match when Ben White is in front of Neuer to make it 2-0 and then the game and the tie changes quickly.  We didn’t [score] and then unfortunately today, we have given two very poor goals away and against a team with that individual quality, they’re going to punish you. The team reacted really well. It is because the game can become very chaotic and you can start to lose some discipline and start to allow them to run, and in that moment, you can lose the tie.”