Manchester United and Chelsea-linked Serie A star keen on move to Barcelona as PL clubs suffer transfer blow: Reports

According to Fichajes.net, Manchester United and Chelsea's target Rafael Leão is interested in joining Barcelona from AC Milan next summer. This comes after United and Chelsea have shown considerable interest in signing the Portuguese international.

Leão has been a pivotal player on the left wing for AC Milan since joining them from Lille for a reported €49.50 million in August 2019. a He showed glimpse of his brilliance in attack this season, having scored six goals and provided seven assists in 23 games.

His attacking brilliance hasn't gone under the radar as Manchester United and Chelsea are looking to sign him. However, Fichajes.net, claims that Leão is solely interested in joining Barcelona.

Meanwhile, Barca has been looking to enhance their left wing since last summer. This was evident as they pushed to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao but failed to.

Leão’s interest in joining Barca could make the deal easier. However, Barcelona's financial situation could be a big stumbling block in this potential deal. The Portuguese international's versatility to feature on both the left and right flank in attack could enhance Barca's attacking outlook.

Manchester United's interest in signing Leão could stem from the uncertainty of Marcus Rasford's future at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, with Mykhaylo Mudryk presently suspended, Chelsea could be looking to sign Leão as his potential long-term replacement.

Leão is contracted at AC Milan till June 2028. However, the aforementioned report claims that he's keen to leave San Siro.

---

Hansi Flick has urged Barcelona to sign an attacker in the ongoing January transfer window - Reports

UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League phase 6Borussia Dortmund - FC Barcelona - Source: Getty

According to Fichajes.net, Hansi Flick has urged Barca's hierarchy to sign an attacker in the ongoing transfer window. This is despite La Blaugrana's struggle to register Dani Olmo and Pau Victor for the second half of the 2024-25 season.

The aforementioned report claims that Flick told Joan Laporta to make some reinforcements in the squad. Flick was also reportedly very particular about getting a fresh attacking option in attack.

It's expected that a fresh attacker would improve La Blaugrana's attacking options and prowess. Barcelona are ranked third in the 2024-25 La Liga table, having registered 38 points from 19 games. They are five points behind leaders Real Madrid in the title race.

La Blaugrana will take on Athletic Bilbao in the Spanish Cup semi-final on Wednesday, (January 8).