Man Utd told they can sign global star at new bargain price; club want him gone

Manchester United have burst into pole position in the race to sign Rafael Leao from AC Milan this summer, with the Italian giants ready to show their winger the door.

Man United plotting move for global superstar

Life is good for the Red Devils right now. Champions League football has long been secured and they're set to end the Premier League campaign in third - one season after they finished as low as 15th. Michael Carrick's interim reign has resulted in significant improvement, so much so that he's been handed the permanent job.

The focus as far as INEOS are concerned is now focused on the transfer window. Their recruitment was successful this time last year, with Bryan Mbeumo, Senne Lammens, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko all making their mark. Now, one year on, it looks as though another attacking star is on their radar.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport in Italy, Man United have been told they can sign Leao for just €50m (£43m) this summer. This comes just years after AC Milan were demanding around £86m to sell their winger, who was recognised as a "global superstar" by GQ not so long ago.

Since then, Leao has gone from a fan favourite to a player at the centre of Milan's frustrations. It's now reached the point that he is expected to leave this summer, with Man United in pole position to secure his signature ahead of Fenerbahçe.

Milan's trash can quickly become Old Trafford's treasure this summer. Leao, at just 26 years old, is still so full of ability. Even in a difficult season on a personal level, the Portugal international has managed 10 goals in all competitions.

Meanwhile, at his best, this is a player who was involved in 25 goals last season and 29 in the campaign prior. For just £43m, he'd be worth every penny at Man United.

Wilcox: Carrick "thoroughly earned" Man Utd job

Saving themselves a summer full of searching for their next manager and backing the man who turned their season around, Man United have officially announced the permanent appointment of Carrick.

The new boss told the club's website once the news was announced: "From the moment that I arrived here 20 years ago, I felt the magic of Manchester United.

"Carrying the responsibility of leading our special football club fills me with immense pride. Throughout the past five months, this group of players have shown they can reach the standards of resilience, togetherness and determination that we demand here."

Club chief Jason Wilcox also added: "Michael has thoroughly earned the opportunity to continue leading our men’s team. In the time he has been doing the role, we have seen positive results on the pitch, but more than that, an approach which aligns with the club’s values, traditions and history."

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